Fraud Prevention & The Importance of Using a Shredder

Identity Theft and Credit Card Facts:

The fastest growing consumer fraud is identity fraud. This happens when a thief creates a "credit clone" of you using personal information. It is easy for perpetrators to commit. They are seldom caught, and reversing the damage is difficult.

Obtaining Personal Information:

Any where that your name, social security number, telephone number and address appears can be easily obtained.  Examples:

• Personal checks
• Driver's license
• Bank statements
• Credit card statements
• Pay stubs - showing your income and employer
• Paying bills - paying your credit card bill and writing your credit card number the check.

Protecting Yourself:

Buying a shredder is the best way to protect yourself from fraud. Shredders are very affordable and lightweight for home or personal use. By shredding documents with your personal information on them you can ensure your financial safety.

Spybuster Tips
• Shred all your waste paper, not just selected confidential items.
• Use a crosscut shredder.
• Make sure anyone with sensitive information about you shreds also.
• Starting point: Your bank.
• Encourage the destruction of all waste paper.
• Purchase shredders appropriate to your needs.
• Use crosscut destruction for high level of security.
• Computer paperwork and large volume wastes require a central built shredder.

What Should Be Shredded?   Examples of items criminal could use if not disposed of properly: