Identity theft is a serious crime that has been increasing as technology grows. 2007 had estimates of up to 15 million people victimized by identity theft in America. With the economy in dire straits currently, identity theft could increase dramatically this year if people don’t take the necessary precautions.  It is even more critical for individuals to monitor their credit rating on a regular basis.

Today, millions are shopping online and purchasing over the internet on a daily basis. Identity theft has risen as thieves turn their attention to this domain. Most sites are secure and trusting but always make sure you are using a secure browser and website when shopping online. Never release personal information when shopping online unless you are using a secure browser. If you don’t have a secured browser or the website, when shopping online, place your order by phone. Likewise, if you do order by phone, make sure no one is near by that may overhear your credit card number.

Also, many websites require a password or a personal identification number (PIN) when shopping online. Don’t use common names or dates that can easily be guessed. Create a password or PIN made of numbers and letters. As an example, instead of using “Mickey” use “M8ck3y”. This simple change will deter most identity theft opportunities.

Other identity theft areas to remember include:

-Keeping your credit cards with you at all times. Never let your cards out of your site even to waiters at restaurants or cashiers at stores.
-Check your monthly credit card statement thoroughly. Whether you receive your credit card statement by mail or electronically, check to make sure all the charges were actually made by you. Any discrepancies on your credit card statement should be reported to your credit card company immediately.
-If you’re planning to move, let the credit card company know in advance to prevent the next tenant from receiving your credit card statement.
-An obvious, yet frequently overlooked, area is to alert your credit card company if your card becomes lost or stolen with the date the card was lost or stolen. This way a stop can be put on your card to prevent charges from being made to your account.

In many cases, victims of identity theft haven’t done anything wrong except place their trust in people. Do your part to protect your identity by following the tips above and you will reduce your risk of identity theft. Most credit card companies today offer a identity/fraud protection guarantee so make sure you look for credit cards which offer this protection.

Again, check your credit rating often, and if you notice anything odd contact your credit card company immediately. As mentioned most have measures in place to keep identity theft damage to a minimum.

With the increase of cell phone cameras, credit card fraud has been on the increase. Restaurant waiters and retail clerks are finding new ways to steal your credit card number. Cell phone cameras are used to take pictures of your credit card when you hand it to them to pay for your purchase. The easiest way for them to do this is to slip your credit card into their pocket and take a picture while walking away to charge your credit card. We suggest if you pay with a credit card, watch the merchant closely. Make sure the retail clerk, or waiter, does not enter the bathroom or leave your sight while holding your credit card. This is a good way to avoid credit card fraud!

The good news is most credit card companies now offer some level of credit card fraud protection. However it is important as a consumer to regularly check your credit score. We always suggest getting a free credit report like the one offered by GoFreeCredit. Keeping current with your credit score will reduce any credit card fraud and give you peace of mind.

Advanta Credit Card has introduced a new business credit card which offers 90 days interest free on all purchases. The Advanta Platinum Business Credit Card charges no interest for 90 days on purchases, offers a business rewards program, and has no annual fee. The Advanta Platimum is perfect for a small business managing their cash flow. The 90 day interest free period is not a promotional offer and can provide up to $50,000 in working capital. While the business rewards program is not as competitive as other business rewards programs, it does provide redemption for travel, merchandise or cash. It is better than nothing. However, the main attraction for small businesses to get the Advanta Platinum card is to take advantage of the perpetual 90 day interest free period.