Offline Precautions

Only carry the identification you need on a daily basis in your wallet, purse, or briefcase. Don’t carry your Social Security card with you. It’s a good idea to make copies of all of the information that you carry (credit cards, driver's license and insurance cards) and keep the copies in a secure place such as a safe, locked drawer, or safe deposit box. If they are stolen or you lose them, you’ll have a record of who to call.

Be cautious when asked for your or someone in your family's Social Security number. Always verify the reason it is required. Never write your Social Security number on your checks. Keep documents that contain your Social Security number in a secure place such as a locked drawer. This should include documents belonging to your children, parents and other members of your family.

Sign up for online statements (when available) to reduce your chances of having your identity stolen through the mail. If a company doesn't offer online statements, make sure you review all of your banking, credit card, and auto account paper statements regularly. Reviewing your transactions is the easiest way to catch unknown activity.

Use direct deposit to have paychecks and other recurring deposits placed directly into your accounts. This reduces the risk of a criminal obtaining your account number from a paper check.

For example, if you are an Ally Auto customer you can enroll in Ally's Auto Pay – which allows your monthly auto payment to be withdrawn automatically from your checking or savings account. This helps combat identity theft by removing another paper source that contains your private information.

Always shred documents that contain personal information instead of placing them in your trashcan or recycling bin. This includes pre-approved credit card offers. Criminals look for personal information in trashcans and use it to access your accounts or open new accounts using your identity. You should also be mindful of documents that could be accessed by babysitters, guests and other people who visit your home.

As an extra precaution, you can opt out of receiving pre-approved credit offers  online  or by calling 1-888-5-OPTOUT (1-888-567-8688).

Store blank and canceled checks securely. Report lost or stolen checks immediately. Use your checks in order and look for check numbers out of order on your statements. A check number out of order could indicate fraud. Use online bill payment or electronic funds transfers instead of writing checks to reduce check fraud.

Check your credit report annually. As a consumer you are entitled to one free credit report from each of the three reporting agencies once a year. You can request these reports  online .

Always keep your credit and debit cards in a safe place. If your card is lost or stolen, contact the issuing company immediately. Memorize your PIN code. Do not write it down or share it with anyone including bank employees or police agencies.

Be aware of your surroundings at the ATM. Make sure others cannot see the keypad while you're entering your PIN. If you do print a receipt, take it with you and keep it in safe place. The receipt may contain information about your account balance and a partial account number, which may be used for fraud. When you’re done with your receipts, shred them.