In honor of Crime Prevention month, the Alpena County Sheriff’s Office offers the following tips on preventing identity theft.

Identity Theft is the fastest growing crime in America. Identity theft costs individuals thousands of dollars every year. Often, the “victim” is not certain a crime has happened, or is too embarrassed to take action. Anyone can be a victim, no matter how intelligent, educated, or knowledgeable they are.

Here are some tips to prevent you from identity theft:

∫ Shred all documents, including preapproved credit applications received in your name, insurance forms, bank checks and statements you are discarding, and other financial information.

∫ DO NOT give out personal information over the phone, through mail, or over the internet unless you initiated the contact or know whom you’re dealing with.

∫ Don’t use an obvious password like your birth date, your mother’s maiden name, or the last four digits of your Social Security number.

∫ Minimize the identification information and number of credit cards that you carry. DO NOT carry your Social Security card, birth certificate, or passport, unless necessary.

∫ Keep your personal information in a secure place at home, especially if you have roommates, employ outside help, or are having work done inside your home.

∫ Be alert to signs that require immediate attention: bills that do not arrive as expected, denials of credit for no apparent reason, and calls or letters about purchases you did not make.

∫ Inspect your credit report yearly. The law requires you to receive one free credit report each year.

If you suspect identity theft, or feel you may need help, contact the Alpena County Sheriff’s Office at 989-354-9839.