How to Avoid Identity Theft

The holiday season can be full of cheer, it’s also the perfect time for crime.

While out shopping or even doing mundane errands, it’s important to protect yourself against identity fraud. Each year, some nine million people have their identities stolen, according to the Federal Trade Commission.

So if you’re looking to keep the Grinch from stealing your I.D. this holiday season, Gail Cunningham, a spokesperson for the National Foundation for Credit Counseling offers some pointers to stay safe.

• Be Aware: Be cautious of your surroundings wherever you are this season. The hustle and bustle of crowds can give pick-pockets the opportunity to make you a victim.

• Avoid Debit Transactions: Debit transactions are immediate, thus allowing thieves the opportunity to wipe out your checking and savings in an instant. A credit card offers more protection for shoppers during the holiday buying season.

• Hide Your Pin: Avoid ATM lurkers or machines that look suspicious. If you choose to pay in cash, make numerous trips to the ATM to avoid carrying around large amounts of cash.

• Keep Your Eye on the Credit Card: There’s a gadget called a skimmer that you can buy online, not very expensive, and an unscrupulous waiter or clerk can buy the skimmer and then skim your credit card information, in addition to running it through for a legitimate charge, says Cunningham. “They can sell that information to organized crime, which is tied to identity theft.”

• Lighten your wallet:  Remove anything from your wallet that you don't absolutely need to have with you.  That way, if someone is successful in stealing it, they won't get as much.  (And be sure to take out your social security card if you keep it inside your wallet.)