Wallet

Remove any cards or documents not needed on a regular basis.

Don't keep a birth certificate in your wallet.

Only carry your passport when necessary.

If your wallet is lost or stolen, immediately contact your credit card companies and financial institutions.

Mailbox

Install a locked mailbox or a mail slot that allows letters to drop inside your home.

When you're away, ask a neighbour to promptly pick up your mail.

Take note of when credit card and utility bills are supposed to arrive.

Reduce the number of sensitive documents mailed to your home by switching to secure online banking.

Destroy any unwanted pre-approved credit card applications that arrive in the mail.

Instruct your bank not to mail you unsolicited convenience cheques.

Computer

Use intricate passwords.

Avoid using an automatic login feature.

Never leave your laptop in the car or anywhere else it could easily be stolen.

Use digital signatures, data encryption, and anonymizing services.

Use a personal firewall.

Install virus protection software.

Disable file-sharing software to block unauthorized access to information in your computer.

When shopping or banking online, only send personal or financial information after ensuring there is a secure transaction system.

Make online purchases from reputable firms.

Sign out of a web site and clear your Internet file after online banking.

Make sure your wireless Internet is protected.

Disconnect or disable your Wi-Fi equipment when not in use.

Do not reply to or click on links in any e-mail asking for your personal information.

Ensure personal information is deleted before selling a computer.

Do not engage by replying to bogus e-mails.

Credit Cards

Don't give credit card numbers on the telephone unless you are sure who you are speaking with.

Monitor bills and credit card activity carefully each month.

Keep a list of all credit card numbers and expiry dates in a safe place

Cut up any credit or debit cards that are expired or that you don't use.

Identity Theft Checklist

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