Could identity theft happen to you?

With all the reports about identity theft and its victims, many people wonder just how susceptible they may be. The Identity Theft Resource Center has developed this survey to help you rate your identity theft risk rating.

       I own a cross-cut shredder and use it regularly. (+1 pt)                                                 

      My shredder is near the trash can or in the office where most of my mail is sorted. (+2 pts)

      I receive pre-approved credit offers and shred them before putting them in the trash. (+1 pt)

      I receive convenience checks or balance forward checks in the mail (from credit card companies) every month and shred them before putting them in the trash. (+1 pt)

      I don’t believe people root around in my trash looking for credit/financial info. (-1 pt)

      I carry my Social Security card in my wallet. (-3 pts)

      I have another card in my wallet with my SSN on it. (-3 pts)

      I have a card that used to have my SSN on it but I copied it and cut off part of the SSN (+3 pts)

      I have my SSN or driver’s license number printed on my personal checks. (-2 pts)

      My SSN is also my driver’s license number and I have made no effort to change that. (-2 pts)

      My SSN is publicly displayed or used at work or school (timecards, receipts, badges) (-1 pt for each occurrence)

      I use a locked, secure mailbox or post office box to receive mail. (+1 pt)

      I leave mail for pickup in an unlocked location at home or at work (-2 pts)

      I watch my surroundings for people who might be listening when giving out SSN or financial information. (+2 pts)

      I keep personal identifying information in a locked or protected area of my home that visitors can’t access. (+3 pts)

      I have ordered a copy of my credit reports during the last year. (+2 pts)

      I have not ordered a copy of my credit report during the last year. (-1 pt for each year you have not checked your report; maximum of 4 pts)

      I keep an eye on my credit cards whenever they leave my hands (+2 pts)

      I do not respond to internet or telephone solicitations. (+2 pts)

      I provide my SSN whenever asked, without asking how that information will be safeguarded or why it is necessary for them to have it in the first place. (-3 pts)

      I’m connected to the Internet but don’t use firewall or virus software. (-2 pts)

Each one of these questions represents a possible risk factor or protection against ID theft. Each time you added points you were on the right track. Each time you subtracted points you entered a danger zone. A perfect score is 20 (in the + zone, of course). Honestly, everyone can and should be a 20 by making logical and justified changes to protect their identity. If your total from this survey falls short, take the time to fix your area(s) of exposure. It’s a tiny fraction of the time and effort compared to what might otherwise be required rebuilding from ID theft.