Hey Michigan, Take These 7 Things Out Of Your Wallet Now!
If you carry any of these things in your wallet, you should probably take them out.
In a world filled with fraud, the best defense is a strong offense. Taking a few simple steps can make it a little more difficult for those trying to steal your identity. Take a look at your wallet right now and see how many of these things you are carrying with you.
I'm not going to lie that up until a few years ago, I was carrying way to many of these things with me. Thankfully, my wallet was never stolen, because I would have been an easy target if someone wanted to steal my identity. Thanks to discover.com, check out seven things you shouldn't keep in your wallet below.
Millions of Americans have their lives interrupted by fraudulent situations. In 2021, according to bankrate.com, identity fraud victims lost an average of $1,551 due to scams and fraud.
If you carry the following items in your wallet, do yourself a favor and take them out now. You'll be happy you did if your wallet is ever stolen.
CHECKS
Stop carrying checks around in your wallet. They contain a gold mine of information for scammers. Your address, name, bank routing numbers, and more are all contained in a neat little cheat sheet for scammers.
MULTIPLE GIFT CARDS
Unless you are heading out to spend them, there's no point in keeping those gift cards in your wallet for the office chance you end up at that place. If they are lost or stolen, you're pretty much screwed. Also, having too many will just make your wallet look like George Costanza's.
EXCESS CASH
The first and easiest thing someone can steal from you. Sure, cash is king, but once it's gone, it's gone. Keep enough in for emergencies and everyday spending. Don't try to look like a hero carrying around thousands of dollars. It's obnoxious and also makes you a target.
SOCIAL SECURITY CARD
If a scammer gets their hands on your social security card and your ID, it's game over. You've essentially handed them the keys to the city. And honestly, when was the last time you actually needed to present your social security card to someone? Keep it safe at home until you need it.
MULTIPLE CREDIT CARDS
Another classic example of keeping all your eggs in one basket. If you lose your wallet with all of your cards in it, you are pretty much left with nothing until your replacements come in. Not to mention the amount of damage a thief can do with all those cards in a matter of minutes.
PASSWORD CHEAT SHEETS
The amount of people that I know that carry password cheatsheets is astonishing. There are plenty of apps out there that you can use to keep your passwords safe.
SPARE KEYS
"Dear Thief, once you're done stealing my identity, feel free to swing by my house and help yourself."
Be honest, how many of these things do you have in your wallet right now? Be safe and reorganize.
Source: Discover.com
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