Getting a credit application approved, transferring money from one account to
another, renewing your driver's license, getting a prescription from your doctor
at your local pharmacy. Think about how easily and quickly you can do these things
today. A downside of this convenience is that there are so many places and
opportunities for your personal information to be changed, stolen or reported
inaccurately. Help prevent this misuse with these tips:
- Look for privacy statements on websites, sales materials,
and forms you fill out. If a website claims to follow a set of established
voluntary standards, read the standards. Don't assume they provide the level
of privacy you want.
- Ask what information will be collected and how it may be used.
Only do business with those with privacy practices that meet your approval.
- Never give anyone your passwords or PIN numbers. Con artists
might try to trick you into giving this information.
- Do not give personal information to those you don't know. A
credit card number, savings or checking account number, or Social Security
number in the wrong hands can be used to steal from you or to steal from
others in your name.
- Don't give retailers information that isn't required. You
don't have to give numbers other than the one you are using for payment.
Some states bar merchants from asking consumers to provide additional
information on checks or credit card slips. At the supermarket, find out
whether a clerk can give you the discount without using the store's
discount card.
- Be selective about what you put on warranty registration forms.
The company only needs the purchase date, model/serial numbers, and how you
can be contacted if there is a product recall. Questions not related to your
purchase such as your income and hobbies can be ignored.
- Talk about privacy with others in your home. Everyone, even
children, should understand what information is not appropriate to share on
the phone, while using a computer, and in other situations.
Check with your state or local consumer agency to find out whether there are any state laws that help protect your privacy. Some companies and industry groups have also adopted voluntary policies that address privacy concerns.
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