Most consumers get so attracted to offers that seem too good to resist. In this way, people tend to provide their personal information right away without verifying first the authenticity of the promotion. So, it's a must that you make sure every transaction that you do is safe, valid, and secured.

 

5. Be wary of the people around you especially during a transaction with your credit card.

 

There have been instances wherein shopkeepers can also be probable identity thieves. They could get hold of your account instantly using a skimmer instead of a swipe machine. With this, they could easily get your account information unnoticed. There are those who use mobile phones with camera. They use this to get a picture of your credit card without you knowing it. Once they have enough information about you, chances are you'll receive bills that you didn't make.

 

6. Thoroughly scan your billing statements and credit reports.

 

Most consumers tend to overlook some specific billing details on their account statements. That's why it is extremely important to go over the details one by one so as to check for errors, miscalculations, or any signs of possible identity theft. Neglected inaccuracies could bring more problems than you could imagine.  There is usually a time limit for reporting erroneous information on a credit card bill.

 

7. Be familiar with your billing cycle.

 

Do not be too dependent on your mails. As a consumer, you should be smart enough to track down your billing cycle so that you'll know when your billing statement should arrive. Any missing bills could be signs of identity theft in the offing. This is because identity thieves will get hold of your billing address and change it so that you'll not be informed of any charges on your account.

 

8. Never carry credit cards or social security cards that you do not need when you go out.

 

Will you be penalized if you don't bring them with you? Of course not! So better place them in safe places rather than placing them in your wallet. I’ve never carried my social security card in my wallet, and have never needed it.  Yes, sometimes I need the number, but it’s committed to memory, I don’t need the actual card itself.

 

9. Never lend your credit card to anyone.

 

It's your life! All the information regarding your account is written on it. So be extra careful when you do transactions with it.

 

10. Report a lost or stolen card as soon as possible.

 

Don't delay! Inform the credit card companies the very minute you find out that your cards were lost of stolen. The longer you wait, the more trouble that can occur. The longer that you delay your report, the greater chance for the identity thief to make appropriate moves to benefit from the situation.