Red flags rule to curb ID theft

The red flags rule is supposed to help curb identity theft, by shifting some of the burden from consumers to businesses. Learn more at www.ftc.gov/redflagsrule. But you should still keep a close watch on your personal information. Here are some suggestions from the Federal Trade Commission:

Protect your Social Security number. Don't carry your card if you don't need it. Ask why someone needs it if it is requested.

Handle mail with care. Shred documents that contain credit card numbers, banking information and credit card offers. Limit credit card offers: Call 888-5-OPT-OUT (888-567-8688).

Don't give out personal information on the phone, via mail or the Internet, unless you initiated contact and are sure of whom you're dealing with. Miami Herald