Identity theft. Why shred papers with name/address if a thief can find the same info from telephone directory?

I get fed up with shredding junk mail - what's the point? I understand you shouldn't leave bank details lying around, but do you need to destroy stuff when its in the public domain?Identity theft. Why shred papers with name/address if a thief can find the same info from telephone directory?
It is not the name and address on its own, but certain documents (Utility bills etc) can be used to prove identity and address at a bank or building society to obtain a loan or open an account. Fraudsters then notify them of a change of address so that your name is still used but at a different address. This is often used to "launder " money obtained by dishonest means but also to fleece other people's accounts or obtain loans in your name. It would be a great help if Banks and Building Societies were to cross check with the local Polling List but this is not always the case.
im not in the telephone directory - you can opt to be ex - directory and not be listed.Identity theft. Why shred papers with name/address if a thief can find the same info from telephone directory?
Not if you are Ex Directory they can'tIdentity theft. Why shred papers with name/address if a thief can find the same info from telephone directory?
do they print ur bank details and credit card numbers in the phone book?

gosh better go get out the yellow pages and do some internet shopping! way hay!
The phone directory doesn't have your SS# where as some of your mail may have it. If you want you can choose to have an unlisted number. If someone really wanted they could still find out all your information even if you take all the necessary steps to protect yourself from identity theft.
No, but you do need to shred anything with a credit account number on it and those credit card applications with you name printed on them.
The telephone directory will not connect your name and address with a company or account that you have, make sure you shred all the info pertaining to your account numbers, or potential account numbers, so someone can't use your name to start a new account, or get into your old accounts.
Can you afford to take chances like that? Personally I can't and therefore cross shred everything, even envelopes. It doesn't take long and gives me peace of mind that I am doing everything I can to avoid identity theft.

It all goes to recycling anyway.
Just take your rubbish out a few minutes before the dustmen come, it's much easier
They can`t find mine in the telephone directory,i`m not in there! If it bothers you that much then don`t do it,it`s your risk.
identify theft depends on on two things one is your ss card, and your banking information, because home mail can be stolen at the door so easy, contact all your creditors and request that ss number and account numbers be blacked out on all mailings to you. they may request a password arrangement to set this up, or request that all mailings be stopped and copies sent to you by email. when paying Bills record date of statement, the account number and transaction number if on-line. otherwise shred anything. and everything . or do as i do throw it in the wood stove and burn it.
You raise a valid point. You need to be responsible with your personal information but you don't need to be paranoid. If someone is really after you they are going to get the information.



To make shredding a less of a pain I recommend shredjunkmail.com. It is cheaper than a shredder and you can do several months of shredding in a few minutes.
It's because utility bills and so on can be used as proof of address. And you should be especially wary of all those junk mail credit card applications you receive, because someone could easily apply in your name.