Seniors

50 Ways To Love Your Money

  • Identity Theft

    Keep Your Identity to Yourself

  • #38 Refuse, Politely

    Give out your personal information on a "need-to-know" basis. Don't be afraid to politely refuse to divulge unnecessary info, like your account or Social Security numbers unless you initiated the contact and know with whom you're dealing.

  • #39 Be Savvy About Scams

    Keep up to date on new ways identity theft is being committed — like "phishing" — and learn how to avoid those traps. Pay close attention to unexpected requests for account information. Never give out your personal information over the phone unless you initiated the call. And never respond to emails saying you've won a contest or for an overseas business proposition or with links that ask you to complete personal information about online accounts.

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  • #40 Get Secure

    Bank statements, credit card offers, and anything else that contains account info should be shredded before you recycle it. And consider getting a secure mailbox as well.

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  • #41 Stay in Check

    Check your statements and credit report often. The sooner you discover fraudulent charges, the less damage can be done. Ensure your security by taking the following measures:

    • Sign up for the "Do Not Call" list to stop getting telemarketing calls. You can register by calling 1-888-382-1222 or visiting www.ftc.gov/donotcall

    • Remove your name from mailing lists to reduce solicitations by visiting www.dmachoice.org

    • Keep all personal files locked up

    • Don't carry your social security card in your wallet or purse

    • Inquire about identity theft insurance offerings at your financial institution

    • Check your credit reports often for mistakes or fraudulent charges

  • Suspicious Signs

    If your personal information has been stolen or your identity has been compromised, the Federal Trade Commission recommends that you watch for the following signs:

    • You may not get certain bills or other mail on time, which could indicate someone has taken over your account and changed the address to cover tracks.

    • You receive credit card or other offers you didn't apply for.

    • You're denied credit, or are offered less favorable credit terms, like an unexpectedly high interest rate, for no clear reason.

    • You receive calls or letters from debt collectors or businesses about merchandise or services you didn't purchase.

    For more on identity theft protection and what to do if you think you're a victim, visit the Federal Trade Commission at www.ftc.gov.

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