What Not to Keep in Your Purse
Keeping certain items in your purse can make you a target for theft, compromise your personal information, or cause unnecessary strain on your body. Here are eight things to avoid carrying with you.
1. Passwords
Never store passwords on paper in your purse. Written passwords can easily fall into the wrong hands, leading to account breaches. Instead, use a secure app on your phone to store them.
2. Debit Cards
Debit cards offer less protection against fraud than credit cards. If a thief uses your debit card, the money is immediately taken from your account, and it can be a lengthy process to get it back. Use credit cards for most purchases and keep debit cards for ATMs only.
3. Receipts
Receipts might seem harmless, but they provide clues about your spending habits and where you shop. This information can be valuable to a thief trying to commit fraud, so clear out old receipts regularly.
4. Checkbooks
Carrying a checkbook increases the risk of check fraud, which can take months to resolve. If you must use checks, carry only a few and leave the rest at home.
5. Gift Cards and Store Credit Cards
Gift cards and store credit cards are like cash to a thief. They're difficult to replace if lost or stolen, so carry them only when you plan to use them.
6. Identifying Documents
Only carry your driver's license or state ID regularly, and avoid keeping documents like your Social Security card, passport, or birth certificate in your purse unless needed for travel, as they pose a high risk for identity theft.
7. Perishable Snacks
Avoid keeping perishable snacks like fruit or candy bars in your purse, as they can easily spill, melt, or get crushed. Instead, choose non-perishable items like trail mix or nuts and store them in secure containers.
8. Heavy Items
Lugging around heavy items such as laptops can cause shoulder, back, or neck pain over time. Opt for a backpack or messenger bag to carry heavier items to distribute the weight more evenly.
By keeping these items out of your purse, you can protect your personal information, reduce your risk of theft, and save yourself from unnecessary pain.
References: 9 things you should never keep in your purse | 12 Items You Shouldn't Carry in Your Purse
