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Protect Yourself from Identity Theft - Stay Alert and Take Action

Learn about the common forms of identity theft, how personal information is used, and how to reduce your risk. Be aware of warning signs and know what to do if you become a victim of identity theft.

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Protect Yourself from Identity Theft - Stay Alert and Take Action

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  1. Identity Theft Someone steals your personal information for his/her own gain It’s a crime!

  2. Personal Information • Social Security number • Credit card number • Bank account information • Driver’s license number • Computer password • Address & phone number • Mother’s maiden name • Student ID number & password

  3. Statistic 29% of identity theft victims are between the ages of 18-29 Federal Trade Commission, 2005

  4. Common Forms of Identity Theft • Stealing or diverting mail • Dumpster diving • Watching or listening as someone enters PIN or credit card number • Stealing wallet, purse, backpack, cell phone, or computer • Finding information in someone’s home

  5. Common Forms of Identity Theft • Hacking into a computer or redirecting user to bogus website • Phishing • Voice phishing – vishing • Stealing databases from businesses, schools, etc.

  6. How is personal information used? • To purchase goods or services • To open new credit accounts • To steal money from the victim’s account(s) • To sell information to other criminals • To commit other crimes

  7. Reducing Your Risk • Don’t be intimidated • Guard your personal information • Check your credit report regularly (age 18) • It’s OK to say NO • Protect your Social Security number

  8. Online Shopping • Know who the seller is • Know what is being purchased • Know how much it will cost • Charge it • Know the terms

  9. Online Shopping cont. • Keep records • Be sure website is secure • Enter payment information each time • Read the company’s privacy policy • Review website privacy seals

  10. Warning Signs of Identity Theft • A driver’s license has already been issued in your name • Denied student loan, credit card, or apartment • Unsolicited credit card offers • Calls or letters from credit collection agencies • Telemarketers calling to speak to you by name

  11. Other Warning Signs • Accounts listed on credit report they didn’t open • Unexplainable charges on accounts • Fraudulent or inaccurate information or credit report • A missing bill or statement • Getting credit cards you didn’t apply for

  12. What to do if Identify Theft Occurs • Place a fraud alert on your credit file • Get a free credit report • Close accounts that have been compromised • File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) • File a police report

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