Most people don't realize how widespread identity theft has become — nor how personally vulnerable they are. Ten million Americans were victimized last year — 41% more than the year before. According to government statistics, approximately 1 in 20 American families have been touched by the crime of identity theft in the past year. On average, the financial reward for an identity thief is three times that of an armed robber, while the average prison sentence is six months rather than 20 years. No wonder organized crime is moving swiftly into this area!
Yet surveys show 98 million American adults have no idea what to do if identity theft strikes them.
How can I prevent becoming an identity theft victim? While no one can totally prevent this crime from occurring, here are some positive steps to take which will decrease your risk.
Check your credit reports at least once a year from all three of the credit reporting (quarterly is better).
Guard your Social Security number. When possible, don't carry your Social Security card with you.
Don't put your SSN or drivers license number on your checks.
Guard your personal information. You should never give your Social Security number to anyone unless they have a good reason for needing it.
Watch for people who may try to eavesdrop and overhear the information you give out orally.
Carefully destroy papers you throw out, especially those with sensitive or identifying information. A crosscut paper shredder works best.
Be suspicious of telephone solicitors. Never provide information unless you have initiated the call.
Delete without replying to any suspicious email requests. Be wary of the many scams in existence which are using many creative, and seemingly legitimate, tricks to obtain your personal identification information.
Use a locked mailbox to send and receive all mail.
Apply for and use credit cards online when SSL technology is implemented for information protection.
Make sure that businesses that print out cash register receipts have partially truncated your credit card number.
What should I do if I become an identity theft victim?
Contact the Federal Trade Commission at http://www.consumer.gov/idtheft/ or 877-IDTHEFT and let them know about the crime. They are putting together a comprehensive study and your information will help others. They will also help guide you on what steps you’ll need to take.
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