Credit cards offers via mail..it has your name & address... is it neccecary to destroy that information?

Answer 1

I always destroy all my credit card offers that I receive in the mail. I worked at a bank for only a year and I cannot tell you how many people came in telling me their mail was stolen from their mailbox or trash. It seemed like I opened at least one account every week because of identity theft resulting from stolen mail.

Also just as a little FYI, pen marks can be erased from paper. The only thing that cannot be erased is permanent marker (e.g. Sharpies).

I may be a little paranoid, but it's better to be safe than sorry...

Answer 2

I think a paper shredder is the best $20 you can invest in for all kinds of junk mail not just the credit card offers. You should also opt out from having your name on future mailing lists. The biggest culprits to selling your name are the three credit reporting bureaus. There are organizations who sell mailing lists from other sources as well. Contact them and ask that your name be removed. Consider getting a Post Office Box as a primary address and only give your home address to those who need it. A PO Box runs around $25-30 a year. It's a good investment.

Answer 3

yea, i need to start doing that too. I usually tear it up but I don't shred. But be aware, the vast majority of identity theft occurs among people who know eachother and family. Very little occurs among complete strangers.

Answer 4

Kath is right- shred it or tear it up into very small pieces. Generally, be very cautious as to who gets your name and address.

Answer 5

Yes, shred them up.

That is one way trashpickers can steal your identity by taking credit applications.

Answer 6

Yes, I would. There are so many out there trying to steal someone's identy. I wouldn't take the chance.

Answer 7

shred...shred...shred... someone can use that info and get a card.