• Never click on links sent in unsolicited emails; instead, type in the web address you know. Use firewalls, anti-spyware, and anti-virus software to protect your home computer; keep them up-to-date. Visit OnGuardOnline.gov for more information.
• 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.
• Keep your personal information in a secure place at home, especially if you have roommates, employ outside help, or are having work done in your house.

Detect suspicious activity by routinely monitoring your financial accounts and billing statements.

Be alert to signs that require immediate attention:

• Bills that do not arrive as expected
• Unexpected credit cards or account statements
• Denials of credit for no apparent reason
• Calls or letters about purchases you did not make

Inspect your credit report. Credit reports contain information about you, including what accounts you have and your bill paying history.

• The law requires the major nationwide consumer reporting companies to give you a free copy of your credit report each year if you ask for it.
• Visit www.Annual CreditReport.com or call 1-877-322-8228, a service created by these companies, to order your free credit reports each year. You also can write: Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.

Inspect your financial statements. Review financial accounts and billing statements regularly, looking for charges you did not make.

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