Deb Schroeder, Extension Educator
University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension
Thieves can obtain your personal information by sorting through your trash, accessing public records and they may even steal from your mailbox. Take great care to protect and conceal the following information:
name
address
date of birth
Social Security number
mother's maiden name
credit card numbers
driver's license number
bank account numbers
phone numbers
Security Precautions
Do not carry your Social Security card, birth certificate or passport in your purse or wallet except when needed. Store these items in a safe deposit box.
Never print your Social Security or driver's license numbers on your checks. You do not have to give out your Social Security and/or driver's license numbers or personal information when asked. A business may refuse your business if you do not furnish the requested information. If this information is requested, ask these questions before determining whether to release the information.
Why is the number needed?
How will it be used?
What law requires that I give you this number?
What will happen if I refuse to give the number?
If you live on a college campus, you are encouraged to carry your student identification and room key at all times. Failure to show your identification card to a staff member when requested may be a violation of the institution's policies. It is recommended not to carry your credit cards and driver's license in the same carrier in case you lose one set, then you do not lose your total identification.
For security reasons, you should not loan your room key to others. If you are locked out or lose your key, a temporary loaner key can usually be checked out from the unit manager. Do not leave your room or apartment unlocked just because you cannot locate the key or will only be gone a short while.
Lock your door every time you leave. Also, help protect your property by making a list of all serial numbers. File the list of serial numbers in a safe place and send a copy home for your parents to keep in a safe place, as well. Colleges and landlords do not provide personal property insurance. College students should ask if items taken to school are covered under a parent's home owner's policy. Renters' policies are available for apartment dwellers.
Protecting your identity and credit is a serious issue. For more hints on protecting your identity request from your Cooperative Extension office a copy of NebFact AProtect Your Credit and Identity@ (NF 04-538) or by viewing it on the web at http://ianrpubs.unl.edu/consumered/nf538.htm.
This week talk to your college bound youth and youth traveling away from home about protecting themselves from identity theft.
To leave feedback about this or any other TIPS article, go to unlforfamilies.unl.edu and click on TIPS.
