MyGreatDeals.com - Privacy Matters

If there weren’t already enough varied identity theft scams out there at the moment, there are a few in particular that everyone seems to know about — but still can’t combat effectively.

So here’s the thing. Just knowing that threats are out there really isn’t enough. It’s sort of like the t-shirt that reads, “Just because you’re paranoid … doesn’t mean they’re not out to get you.” You have to know how to fight back effectively to make a difference. That said, Privacy Matters ^SM offers an at-a-glance view at some of the most common identity theft predatory schemes out there — along with a trick or two to “outfox the fox,” when it comes to safeguarding personal information:

-- It’s trouble — in an easy-opening can. The same guy who invented Spam (ham in a can) for convenience and general eating utility probably never imagined the evolution of the term by today’s standard. But since we are most familiar with “spam” as a general online nuisance — characterized primarily as an abuse of electronic messaging systems — let’s not lose sight that spam can be a great hook for online con artists. When, for example, they send you messages asking for your Social Security number, in exchange for a shot at millions of green backs, don’t open up that can of worms.

-- Diver down. Even though most modern information thieves use the super highway, there are plenty of opportunists who will happily rummage through garbage to filch your personal information. When you discard hard copies containing personal information, use a shredder — not a garbage can. Dumpster divers are just like vultures — claws and all.

-- Go ahead ... look over your shoulder. We all know that there are plenty of people out there who would rather steal than earn. So if you’re working online in a public place where anyone can “sneak a peek” at your password and other personal information, be skeptical and careful.

-- Send phishers out to sea — and fast. Phishing scams can be complicated, but their aims are simple. Try thinking of these scams as — what else? — another ploy to coax you into surrendering your personal information. Never provide any personal or security information in an e-mail unless you know the source. Chances are a phisher is on the other end of the line, just waiting to bait the hook.

For these and other anti-identity theft tips, finding help is easy. When in doubt, just think Privacy Matters .

This article is brought to you by Privacy Matters, an Adaptive Marketing LLC^® membership program that provides you with the tools you need to access and monitor your financial/credit information.