September 2025 Scam: Protect Your Wallet, Protect Your Identity

A cluttered wallet isn’t just inconvenient; it’s a security risk. Thieves look for wallets with multiple cards, identification documents, and personal information. Decluttering your wallet reduces your exposure and gives you peace of mind when you’re out and about.

4 Steps to a Safer Wallet

1. Declutter and Simplify
Take everything out and evaluate what you really need daily. Remove old receipts, unused store cards, expired gift cards, and unnecessary IDs. Keep only what’s essential.

2. Secure Items at Home
Create a safe storage system for items you don’t carry every day. Backup credit cards, extra cash, and rarely used documents can stay safely at home. Only take them out when needed, and always return them.

3. Make Copies for Safety
Photocopy or photograph your cards and important documents. Store copies securely at home. This ensures you can act quickly if your wallet is lost or stolen.

4. Use RFID Protection
RFID-blocking wallets, purses, or card sleeves can help prevent thieves from scanning your credit, debit, or ID cards without your knowledge. Using these can add an extra layer of security against electronic pickpocketing.

Things to Clean Out of Your Wallet

1. Birth Records:  Avoid carrying social security cards and birth certificates; they’re a major target for identity thieves
2. Multiple Credit Cards & Receipts: Stick to one credit card and one debit card for everyday use
3. Checkbook or Checks: Only carry what you need for the day. Keep extra checks stored securely at home to reduce the risk of theft. Deposit checks with your bank app instead of carrying them
4. Work ID: Can be used in scams targeting your workplace
5. Passport/Passport Card: Extremely valuable to criminals
6. PIN Numbers/Passwords: Never write your PIN on a card or store passwords in your wallet
7. Gift Cards: Easily converted to cash by thieves
9. Library Card: Even harmless items can be exploited
10. Spare House Key: Combine with wallet info, and it can lead to burglary
11. Legal Documents: Divorce papers, contracts, and other sensitive papers should stay at home

Source: aarp.org

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