MyCredit Matters

It can mean the difference between good credit and bad credit.

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• Know what information is contained in your reports. Check your reports quarterly.

• Identity red flags in your reports such as addresses you've never lived at, names you don't use, inquiries you didn't make and accounts you didn't open.

• If you spot any suspicious activity place a security freeze on your reports. Once it is activated the creditor will call to verify before opening any credit accounts.

• Protect your information when in a public place. Make sure that store clerks give you the carbon and the copy when using your card. Prevent others from viewing your drivers license, socia security information and credit card information. It is best to hand the cashier your drivers license rather than state your information. 

• Lock up credit cards, bank statement, and checkbooks you don't use. Keep that information in a secure place.

• Shred any mail that contains your personal information before throwing it away. Your trash is a great resource for thieves.

• Do not leave information in a hotel room or at a friend's house.

• Do not store information in your vehicle at any time even if it is locked. Situations that leave you at risk: storing information overnight in your vehicle, going to dinner or the movies, going to the mall or out to eat or a day at the beach.

• Make a list of your credit cards and personal information with the creditors phone number. If stolen you can access this information to have a freeze placed on those accounts.

• Identity Theft happens most often with people who know you. They don't think they are frauding you. It is fraud. Co-workers, roommates, spouses and family members are among those who commit fraud most often.