What information NOT to give on the phone
Con artists tend to rely on the Internet and the U.S. Postal Service, but, according to data complied by the Federal Trade Commission, more than 31,000 scams were initiated by phone in 2007.

You never know who you’re going to get a call from, however you should know that there are some things that you never tell anyone by phone. Here are a few:

  • Social Security numbers. Your social security number allows criminals to apply for credit cards in using your name. Keeping that information under your hat will help keep your identity (and your credit score) safe.
  • Bank account numbers. When you give your bank account number to a stranger, you risk being wiped out by thieves. Anyone who asks for it may be up to no good.
  • Maiden names or birthdates. Con artists can use even the most innocuous information to bilk people out of their money. You may use your mother’s maiden name or a birthdate to confirm your identity, but criminals can do the same thing.

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