What is Identity Theft?
Identity Theft is the fraudulent use of another person's identity for some type of gain. This usually takes the form of using another person's identity to obtain credit or credit cards, steal money from bank accounts, apply for loans, obtain a job, rent an apartment, etc.
How do they steal my identity?
It's really very easy! All they need is your name, address, date of birth, social security number, or credit card number. Once a thief has this information they can ruin your credit, drain your bank accounts and generally destroy your reputation. Unfortunately, it may take years to straighten out the problem. Where do they get this information? Basically, anytime that you give someone personal information, whether verbally or in writing, a potential thief can use the information for their own gain. Fortunately, reputable companies protect your information. Therefore you should only deal with companies that have an established reputation for honesty. If you deal with people or companies that are unknown to you, check them out thoroughly before doing business with them.
Many times people unwittingly give information when completing surveys or questionnaires, or when talking to strangers over the phone who ask for information in exchange for goods or services. Even papers in your trash can provide valuable information for thieves. Invest in a home shredding device and shred your important documents instead of throwing them in the trash.
What can I do?
- Protect your social security number. Avoid giving it out, and do not write your social security number on checks or other documents unless you're sure it's necessary.
- Don't give personal information over the phone (credit cards, PINs, social security number, etc.).
- Shred credit card offers, bank and credit card statements, and other personal documents before throwing away.
- Protect incoming and outgoing mail. Pick mail up promptly, and deposit mail at the post office or in official blue mailboxes.
- Check your credit card status with the three major credit-reporting bureaus yearly. Dispute information that is suspicious.
- Deal only with companies that you know have good reputations.
- Review bank and credit card statements and report questionable charges.
- Take ATM, credit card and other receipts with you.
If You Are A Victim…
- Act immediately.
- Notify the police, your bank, your credit card companies, and the Fraud Units at the credit bureaus.
Remember…
The person who steals your identity may be someone you have never met and will, in all likelihood, never meet. In our society they only need a minimum amount of information about you to ruin your financial status and reputation.
Be aware and take some simple steps to help lessen the chance that you will be a victim of identity theft.
Interesting sites on the Web for more detailed information:
|
