Are you a victim of identity theft? According to Joanna Crane of the Federal Trade Commission's Identity Theft Program, 80% of victims who call the Federal Trade Commission say they have no idea how it happened.
Moreover, an FTC survey reported that 4.6% of respondents reported having been victims of identity theft last year. Moreover, according to a recent report by the General Accounting Office, it is estimated that up to 750,000 Americans are victims of identity theft each year.
This is an invisible enemy and the American financial and personal information that is easily accessible to identity thieves? What can the average American to protect these personal attacks on his private life? Although there are no guarantees, here are five simple steps to help prevent identity theft:
1) Private Shred credit cards, tax documents, bank statements, pre-approved offers of credit cards or other documentation with private financial information.
2) If you are inundated with preapproved credit card can call 1-888-567-8688 toll free to choose and request that your name be removed from the mailing list. You can also call the National Do Not Call 1-888-382-1222 to stop unsolicited telemarketing calls where you can disclose personal information.
3) Check your credit report at least once a year. You are entitled to one free credit report and you can get one by calling 1-877-322-8228. Search for suspicious activity. It is also advisable to subscribe to a credit protection service that will inform you of changes in your credit report.
4) Check your mailbox every day and do not allow mail to sit overnight in your mailbox. Mail theft is an easy way for thieves to obtain personal information. It is best outgoing mail accounts and checks at the post office or other safe places. If you believe your mail has been stolen should contact the nearest Postal Inspector. You can look in the white pages under government services or 1-800-ASK-USPS call.
5) be defensive and more reserved with their data. Do not disclose your personal information freely. Never "validate" your personal or financial information when contacted via email, even if it is a company that does business, but you have this information in the file. It may seem legitimate and realistic, but these attempts are increasingly sophisticated and this scam is what is known as "phishing."
We explored five simple steps the average person can do to help themselves avoid identity theft. In this era of advanced communications and technology and thieves increasingly more misleading than ever, it is imperative to educate yourself. Be careful and understand that this information can be abused and is up to you to protect yourself and your famliy of this growing trend.
October 14, 2011, 04:26:09 AM