20. be careful with file sharing software – it can give hackers access to your computer

21. limit the amount of personal info you divulge on social networking sites

22. keep a close eye on laptops and thumb drives that contain personal information

23. review your monthly bank and credit card statements carefully, or check more often online

24. review your credit report at least once a year for suspicious activity or inquiries

25. keep a master record in a safe place with account numbers and phone numbers should your credit cards be stolen

Identity Theft Recovery:

If your personal data has been subject to identify theft, act immediately.

1.if your cards or ID were physically stolen, file a police report

2.call the big 3 credit bureaus, place a fraud alert on your credit cards, and obtain a free credit report

3.close any bank accounts and credit cards you believe have been used by identity thieves

4.dispute any charges or checks or withdrawals you have not authorized

5.contact DMV for a new drivers’ license and number if yours has been compromised

6.ask for a letter from each account resolving the dispute and verifying that the identity theft accounts have been closed

After the Hurricane Wilma hack, it took weeks to get PayPal to reverse all the charges and chase down the fraud. The paperwork at the bank seemed endless. Citibank canceled the old credit card and sent the new one out in record time.

U.S. Government statistics estimate it takes about 600 hours and $1,200 to counter identity theft and restore your good name and credit.

Prevention beats cure every time.

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