A few posts ago, we went over what a credit score is. Now I want to go over with you methods of protecting your credit score. Just because five is a nice simple number, that’s how many tips I will share with you today.

However, before we delve into the tips, I’d like you readers to be aware of the top causes of identity theft in the United States. According to TransUnion’s Fraud Victim Assistance Department, ways your sensitive information can be obtained include:

Theft by your employer; Credit card skimming; Mail theft; Misrepresentation often via phone or email; Lost or stolen purse or wallet; Improper disposal of credit card receipts and statements; Database intrusion; A dishonest employee; Domestic and/or elder abuse; or just plain eavesdropping and/or wandering eyes.

Pretty scary, isn’t it? Not knowing who you can and cannot trust. I always say, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Anyways, without further adieu, the number one way to protect your credit score:

Be careful who has access to your Social Security number!
This is the main piece of information targeted by identity theft criminals, because unfortunately it is the only number companies use to identify you that is still somewhat private. A good rule of thumb is: only provide your Social Security number to trusted individuals or companies with which you initiated contact. Never, ever provide your Social Security number to anyone over the telephone, mail or email.

If you are applying for a loan, ask that your Social Security number be truncated or blocked out on any paper applications. Furthermore, pay close attention to the lender’s use of your credit report. Ask them to shred the copy once they have reviewed it.

And never, under any circumstances, ever print your Social Security number on your checks.

Shred old paperwork!
Old bank statements and mail that contain personal or financial information should be shredded prior to disposing. This may be a bit extreme but I like to separated the shredded pieces into different garbage cans. Many identity thieves dig through trash cans, in search of personal information. My way, crooks will have a more difficult time piecing papers together.

Secure your Computer!
With the ease of online banking and purchasing these days, the computer has become the new trash can for identity thieves. Run a virus scan on a regular basis. Intrusive programs can search your computer for sensitive information and send it to crooks through the internet. Use hard-to-guess passwords, and change them frequently.

Check your online accounts and credit statements often. Watch for unfamiliar charges or withdrawals, no matter how small the amount.

Subscribe to a Credit Monitoring Service!
Normally I would not support the use of services such as these, especially when we ourselves can monitor our own credit with ease. However, in our current fast paced world, it’s one less thing to have to worry about when a company can notify you each time someone applies for credit in your name. To get most bang for your buck, make sure that the company reports in real time. Some companies report only weekly, or once a month, which does not allow you sufficient time to deter possible identity theft. Get Equifax Score Watch Now!

Fraudulent Emails!
Another tactic thieves use in an attempt to steal your personal information is through “phishing”. These emails appear to come from legitimate businesses, particularly banks and other financial institutions, and are often difficult to discern from the real ones. Recently, I have come across emails including links that direct you back to the legitimate business websites, such as Bank of America and Paypal, to gain your trust.

If you click on the link in the email, you will be taken to a website that looks legitimate, but that is where they get you. Here, you will be asked to login, and BAM! That’s when all your sensitive information such as your account numbers, user IDs and passwords, etc., get automatically sent to the thief.

When you receive an email communication from a “phisher,” just delete it and mark it as spam. Don’t bother replying and chastising the crook. You will just be wasting your time.

Well, that’s it for this time folks. Be sure to tune in again for more ways to protect or raise your credit score. Either that or just come back and read my miscellaneous ramblings. I promise that every post will include at least one money making tip!

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