Are You Too Trusting?

An interesting UK article on Monday points out that a study backed by Equifax determined that credit card users are too trusting. Credit card holders all over the world tend to be very willing to provide information related to credit accounts that can result in identity theft. Are you one of those people?

Even though this study was specifically done in the UK, I think it applies to credit card holders in any country. It's far too common for people to give out credit card numbers on the phone, give them to friends and family, and even to answer questions when a stranger calls claiming to be from the credit card company. If you're one of those people, stop.

The best way to prevent credit card fraud, which often leads to identity theft, is to treat your credit card account information like you treat your Social Security Number. Protect it, vigilantly. If you don't, it's just a matter of time before the wrong person gains access to that information and you find yourself fighting credit card fraud and possibly even identity theft.