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DETER: Minimize Your Risk

Identity theft is a serious crime. It occurs when your personal information is stolen and used without your knowledge to commit fraud or other crimes. Identity theft can cost you time and money. It can destroy your credit and ruin your good name.

The rigors of military life can compound the problems that identity theft creates.

Deter identity thieves by safeguarding your information.

Shred financial documents and paperwork with personal information before you discard them.

Protect your Social Security number. Don't carry your Social Security card in your wallet or write your Social Security number on a check. Give it out only if absolutely necessary or ask to use another identifier.

Don't give out personal information on the phone, through the mail, or over the Internet unless you know who you are dealing with.

Never lend your credit cards or account information to anyone else.

Do not click on links sent in unsolicited e-mails; instead, type in a Web address you know. Use firewalls, anti-spyware, and anti-virus software to protect your home computer, and keep them up-to-date. Visit OnGuardOnline.gov for more information.

Don't use an obvious password like your birth date, your mother's maiden name, or the last four digits of your Social Security number.

Keep your personal information in a secure place, especially if you live in barracks or with roommates.

Don't let mail pile up unattended if you can't collect it. Use a mail stop or P.O. Box, or have someone you trust hold your mail while you are away.

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The President's Identity Theft Task Force

File a Complaint with the FTC

2006 Identity Theft Survey Report

Test Your Knowledge about Identity Theft – Take the OnGuard Online Quiz