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• Ask credit bureaus for a copy of your credit report, which lists companies that have asked for credit information about you. There may be a small fee. Call Equifax at (800) 685-1111; Experian (formerly TRW) at (888) 397-3742; or Trans Union at (800) 888-4213.
• Stop receiving unsolicited “pre-approved” credit card offers. Under the law, all it takes is one phone call to have your name removed from credit-bureau mailing lists: For Equifax, (888) 567-8688; Experian, (800) 353-0809; Trans Union, (800) 680-7293.
• In filling out credit applications, look for a box that says this information is not to be disseminated.
• Do not disclose personal information to retailers, such as your phone number and address. This information is often sold to both phone and direct-mail marketers.
• If possible, avoid litigation, such as having a tax lien filed against you, which becomes public domain.
• Avoid grocery purchases with a savings club card or credit card. Together with scanners, this tells marketers your buying habits.
• Request security codes (a number or a password) for your telephone and bank accounts. Potential intruders must repeat the password to gain access.
• Never give out your Social Security Number to anyone unless it is absolutely necessary. | 