Identity Theft For Dummies

What should I shred? How do I read my credit report? Is it safe to shop online? Find out!

Identity theft costs billions of dollars each year to people just like you. This book shows you how to protect your personal information, reveals risks you may not have thought about, helps you learn whether you've already been victimized, and explains the steps you need to take to reclaim your good name and your good credit.

• Shred before you shed — why you should avoid placing anything in your garbage that contains personal information

• Be vigilant — learn how to regularly monitor your bank accounts and credit card statements

• Am I hit? — what to watch for so you can tell as soon as possible whether your identity has been stolen

• Stick with the coffee — why a cybercafé may be a bad place to shop online or check your bank balance

• Compare services — assess different companies that offer identity theft protection

• Oops, they got me — know what to do first if your identity is stolen and what information you need to have

• Cyber-wary — identify the protection you already have, whether it's adequate, and how to secure information on your computer

• The walls have ears — learn to stay safe in public places

Open the book and find:

• How to understand your credit report

• Tips on making a security plan

• How and when to complete a fraud affidavit

• Reasons for placing fraud alerts on your credit report

• Information you need to open or close accounts

• Checklists and phone numbers for reporting losses

• Sensible steps to keep you safe

• What NOT to carry

Learn to:

• Recognize and avoid common scams

• Protect your personal information offline and online

• Interpret and monitor your credit report

• Restore your good name if you are victimized