Don’t debit During the holidays, only use a credit or gift card. Then, if you’re the target of an identity thief, you’re not losing your hard-earned money. If you don’t have a credit card, consider purchasing a pre-paid credit card to limit the amount lost if you’re victimized.  
 
 RFID = N.O. Take a look at your credit card. If it has a volume symbol on it, that means it emits an RFID signal for easier in-store transactions. But it also means identity thieves can read your card information using a handheld device, regardless of whether that card is still in your purse or wallet. Call your lender and request a card without the RFID chip.
 
 Hand it over Don’t swipe your credit card at the checkout. Instead, hand it over to the cashier to run through on the register. Identity thieves can capture your personal information at point-of-sale terminals.  
 
 Don’t be tempted It’s tempting, but don’t open store credit at check-out—even if they’re offering an immediate purchase discount. By opening store credit, you’re creating more opportunities for your personal information to be exposed. Chances are, you can find a similar discount code with just a few clicks online.
 
 Cash is king The simplest way to ensure your security at the malls? Use cash.  
 
 Don’t go public Don’t shop on public Wi-Fi networks and shared computers. You’re placing your personal information at risk whenever you use a public or community computer to make a purchase online.
 
 Check it out Keep all your transactional receipts and check them against your monthly financial statements to ensure they are correct.
Learn more about identity protection
For more ways to secure your identity, visit Identity Theft 101 and explore the array of available protection options.