When planning your wedding, it’s not unusual to think of all the things that could go wrong: the dress doesn’t fit, the flowers aren’t what you asked for, the weather is terrible. But one thing you may not have considered is protecting your privacy while planning your wedding and your married life together.
In 2012 over 12 million Americans were victims of identity theft. Two particular times where you may find yourself vulnerable to having your identity stolen are during travel and when you change your name.
Safety While Traveling
Hotels are ranked as having one of the highest rates of credit card data theft of all industries, so travel professionals place a particularly heavy emphasis on protecting your information while vacationing. The typical guidelines apply (i.e. bring only the credit cards you need, utilize the hotel room safe, be careful what you’re browsing on shared Internet connections and clear the history when you’re done, etc.), but the awesome people at LifeLock and American Airlines have joined forces in the fight against identity theft, so you and your spouse can honeymoon in peace!
About the partnership and how you benefit:
The AAdvantage program enables members to earn miles for flying with American Airlines (and other airlines!), as well as through purchases with more than 1,000 companies worldwide. With LifeLock involved, members of AAdvantage “can earn up to 4,500 miles when they enroll and receive a 10 percent discount when they enroll with LifeLock. The 4,500-mile offer includes 2,500 miles for new enrollment and 1,000 miles for renewal in years two and three…members can redeem 2,500 miles for a six-month trial membership and receive a 10 percent discount upon renewal.” (See the original press release here.)
Wait…what?
Long story short: If you’re in the honeymoon-planning stages–or even if you’re not–you can secure identity theft protection and earn / redeem miles to put toward the honeymoon travel expenses! Talk about convenience.
Safety While Changing Your Name
Changing your name involves a lot of paperwork that requires you to provide copies of your social security card, passport, driver’s license and credit card information. It’s especially important that you give out your social security number to as few people (and even government agencies) as possible to protect your identity. The Social Security Administration reports that identity thieves often use documents that are stolen or recovered from the trash to get what they need. Make sure your old cards are cut into small pieces so your name and card number are unreadable or consider investing in a shredder. You can even visit your bank and they will dispose of cards and financial info for you at no cost.
Start by getting a new social security card and a copy of your marriage license. When possible, always fill out paperwork in person. If you have to go about the process via U.S. mail, be sure to drop the envelope directly into a locked P.O. box. In the even that you set up a joint checking account, only have checks mailed to your home if your mailbox locks.
Be careful about using a third party service for name changes. These businesses may seem more convenient and don’t typically have as long of a wait as a government office, but the more people who have accessed your social security number and credit card information, the more opportunities there are for it to be compromised.
The Federal Trade Commission provides a number of guidelines for protecting your information both online and offline. Your wedding and early days as a newlywed should be some of the happiest times in your life. By following these simple guidelines and taking basic precautions, you’ll build a beautiful and secure future for you and your spouse.
