Is the number one complaint from consumers and only takes a moment for you to become a victim. While searching for vacation deals, identity thieves are searching for targets – unsuspecting consumers. a Here are some tips to help protect your identity and other valuables: 1) Protect your account numbers – Most stores print only the last four or five digits of the account to be charged on your bill. However, some stores have not caught up with technology. If the merchant makes an impression of your credit card, be sure to ask for any carbon atoms that are part of the reception. "Dumpster divers" can lift account numbers from discarded carbons to steal your identity and account information. 2) Protect your Social Security Number – If you are asked to provide Social Security numbers when making a purchase, the challenge of the case of why you need this information. Request another form of identification is used instead of Social Security number.

There is no valid reason for requesting this information. You provided your account when asked what should already have this on file. However, if you have opened a new account, do not be surprised if the cashier asks to see some form of photo identification such as a driver's license. Do not see this as an imposition, remember that the store is actually taking action to protect you – making sure that you are the account holder. 3) Keep an eye on their credit cards and receipts – Do not let your credit card out of sight.

Most ATMs will keep your card so they can verify the signature on the receipt. However, sometimes, simply swipe your card, then hand it back to you or put it on the counter for you to recover. Check that the card you have turned is yours and not someone else. Sometimes, mistakes can happen, especially when the store is busy. Also, make sure you take your receipts with you. The need to verify your purchases when your bills come in January and February. 4) Watch out for pickpockets – professional pickpockets love the holiday shopping season. Open backpacks, shopping bags and big bags are a dream sparked pickpockets. "Beware of distractions around, because that's what I like pickpockets. In general, team work," said Edward Gross, a Chicago police officer. "In general, work in teams. For example, one of the team members fakes a fall, and when an innocent person who tries to help when the other lift pickpocket wallet of the victim." 5) Use a credit card and a safe place when you buy online – The credit card payment is the safest way to pay online. Protect your right to dispute charges for goods or services never received, never ordered or misrepresented. Arriving the payment page of the merchant, "at the beginning of the URL should change to" or "s. This is a sign that the site is encrypted, or encrypting the information in your credit card to send it to them. Many browsers will even alert you of this through a pop-up window. In print as possible, and keep a receipt of your online transaction, in case you need them later. Felices Holidays!