Get identity theft tips from the security team at UMGC.
These tips can help you learn what to watch out for to prevent identity theft.
Credit Cards
- Sign new cards immediately.
- Store them safely. They are money!
- Only carry the cards you will use.
- Don’t write your PIN on your card.
- Shred documents that show your account number before discarding.
- Don’t give your card number over the phone, unless you initiated the call.
- Remember to get your card and receipt after a purchase, and double check that they are yours.
- Notify the credit card company immediately if your bill is incorrect or if your card is lost or stolen.
- Check your bill carefully and notify the credit card company if you don't receive it on time.
Internet
- Never e-mail your credit card number or Social Security number.
- Check carefully that you are on the page you intended to visit, and not an impostor's page.
- Use only secure web pages for online ordering. (Look for the padlock symbol in your browser bar.)
- Online credit applications that request a Social Security number should also be on secure web pages. (Look for the padlock symbol.)
- Use antivirus and personal firewall software, and keep it updated.
- Don’t write your credit card number or Social Security number on a postcard or the outside of an envelope.
- Collect your mail promptly.
- Have your mail held if you'll be out of town or on vacation.
- Use collection boxes or the post office for outgoing mail if your home mailbox is unattended.
- Opt out of receiving pre-approved credit offers.