Don't become a victim of identity theft, scams

There are steps that you can take to help protect yourself from becoming a victim of identity theft.

The absolute worst thing that you can do is to divulge your Social Security number to someone you do not know.

Do not give personal information on the telephone, by mail or over the Internet to someone you do not know.

Shred all important documents that you are discarding and do not simply throw those documents out in the trash.

Get a free credit report each year from each of the three main credit-reporting agencies and then review the reports for any inconsistencies or unknown charges or accounts.

Consider getting a locking mailbox made of cast iron or hardened rubber to deter mail theft, especially in the outlying rural areas.

Scams are becoming more and more common, so citizens should be on the outlook for offers that are “too good to be true.”

The Web site http://www.scambusters.org is an excellent resource one can subscribe to (for free) to help stay up-to-date on the latest and some “oldies but goodies” scams.

“Be A Mystery Shopper” is one the latest scams that is taking advantage of the less-informed right now.

Everyone from preschool-age children to the elderly can practice crime prevention every day. Citizens are advised to be wise so they do not become a victim.

For more information about crime prevention education and public programs, call John McLelland at the Fallbrook Substation at (760) 451-3124.