Protecting your Identity

More than three quarters of a million Australians were victims of identity theft in the past year, costing the average victim about $4,000 (credit bureau Veda says).  How do these thieves get your identity? - going through your rubbish, mail theft, card skimming, internet sites, loss of a wallet or purse, unsolicited contact, there are many others and for the latest you can check these out at www.scamwatch.gov.au

Here are some ways that you can protect your identity:

• never give your personal details to people you don't know
• check your bank and credit card statements
• review your credit report - or have it monitored
• carry only essential information
• secure documents at home
• destroy personal information - shred or cut up your bills
• secure your mail or get a PO Box
• protect your mobile or smart phone

Identity theft is not only costly its also time consuming and very inconvenient to rectify, sometimes it can take months or even years to prove your innocence.