How can I keep my credit secure?

There are so many schemes out there, it's almost impossible to stay ahead of them, but there are some simple rules.

Don't give out personal information to strangers, no matter who they represent themselves to be or how tempting their offer.

Only use your information on secure websites with well-known businesses & agencies.  Avoid downloading anything from potentially illicit websites.  Don't answer or open unsolicited emails.

If you are going to discard anything with personal information on it, (bills, statements, etc) shred or burn it first.

Always think about how your actions might compromise your information so you are constantly reminded to go to great lengths in making sure that no one will be able to get a hold of it. Some practices that you should do but not limited to are: put a lock on your mailbox, shred documents before throwing them out, keep an eye on your card whenever you use it, be aware of the schemes and devices thieves use, transact with SSL certified websites only and avoid talking to people who call you and pose as bank representatives. Regular credit monitoring is also a big help. If you have this service, you will always be informed of the changes in your score. This will allow you to verify the transactions immediately and dispute them if they were not made by you. When this happens, you are given the chance to put a freeze on your accounts and to request for a fraud alert which minimize, if not totally eliminate the damage the thief would have caused.