Identity Theft
Identity theft is one of the fastest growing white-collar
crimes in the nation. It involves criminally using another
individuals personal information, which is acquired through
various means, including ones own mailbox. The identity
thief needs only to get your name, address, and bank or credit
card account numbers, or your Social Security number, etc.,
to take over your identity. Do you
think you might be a victim of identity theft? Click
here.
To order your credit report online, Click
here.
A few pointers to help you avoid becoming
a victim.
- Do not reveal personal information unless you
know how it will be used or shared.
- Deposit outgoing mail at the post office and
remove delivered mail from your mailbox immediately.
- Carry only the identification and bankcards
that you need.
- Do not give out personal data over the phone,
through the mail, or on the internet unless you have initiated
the contact.
- Shred or tear up your charge receipts, credit
card solicitations, expired cards, statements, checks or
other sensitive personal information.
- Give your Social Security number only when
absolutely necessary. Ask to use other identifiers.
- Don’t carry your Social Security number
in your wallet. Do pick your own passwords and PINs (personal
identification numbers) that will be tough for someone to
figure out.
- Review your bank and credit card account statements
promptly.
- Safely store extra checks, credit cards, and
documents that list your social security number.
- Contact your financial institution immediately
if there is a discrepancy in your records or if you notice
something suspicious, like a missing payment or unauthorized
withdrawals.
- Contact your credit card company if your bill
does not arrive on time.
- Once a year, check your credit record with
the three major credit bureaus. To order your report,
call the following toll-free numbers
Equifax:
800-685-1111
Experian:
888-397-3742
Trans
Union: 800-888-4213
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