Becoming a victim of credit card fraud or identity theft is a nightmare that many people understandably have. However, there are simple ways to protect yourself from suffering from the hassle and potential financial hit. Take a look at some ways that you could be setting yourself up for credit card fraud, and what you could be doing instead:

Throwing Away Billing Statements

These statements that you can get in the mail usually contain your credit card number, address and other identifying information. So make sure that instead of tossing these straight into the trash that you shred them first. And you could also consider going completely paperless and receiving statements online instead. It’s a good move for you and the environment!

Carrying All Your Cards in Your Wallet

It’s a good idea to just carry the cards you need in your wallet just in case something happens to it. If your wallet gets lost or stolen, it will be easier to replace fewer cards and contacts fewer credit card companies to freeze the accounts and protect yourself from theft.

Checking Credit Card Accounts Online via Open Wireless Network

If you’re sitting down at a coffee shop and using their free wifi, it’s probably not the best time to check up on your credit card accounts or bills. While you may want to pay some bills with free time on your hands, this could put you at risk for sharing sensitive information with hackers who can simply intercept online activities. If you need to do something online that requires a password or sensitive information, make sure you do it through a secure internet connection.

Forgetting to Change Your Address When You Move

When you plan on moving, make sure you contact all of your credit card issuers about the change of address. You don’t want sensitive documents sent to anyone else but you, so make sure to prevent these kinds of communications from going to your old address.

Ignoring Your Monthly Statement

Even if you’re not using your credit cards each month, you should always check your monthly statement to verify all of your transactions.

Ignoring your monthly statement only to realize that someone has used your credit card to purchase items without your knowledge can leave you with a pile of debt – the type of debt you will have a hard time fighting to reverse with the credit card company. If you spot any unauthorized transactions when scanning your statement, you can contact the credit card company immediately to either freeze your account or investigate the transaction.

To read more, head over to US News’ 8 Ways You’re Setting Yourself Up for Credit Card Fraud.