Steps to Take to Prevent ID Theft

Identity theft is one of the most serious criminal issues facing law enforcement in both the United States and around the world. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Justice, identity theft is replacing drug trafficking as the No. 1 type of crime in this country. The Federal Trade Commission estimates that 10 million people are victims of identity theft annually. Because of the increasing number of victims affected by this crime, it has become more important than ever to take steps to prevent ID theft.

Protect Personal Information

Protect your personal information at all times. Never allow anyone access to your driver's license, bank information, credit card information and Social Security number, even if they are a family member or trusted friend. In many instances, the people closest to you are the ones most likely to use your information in a case of ID theft. Keep this information in a safe place, such as a home safe or private hiding spot in a bedroom or office. Never carry your Social Security card in your wallet. The less access you allow other people to your personal information, the less likely it will be that you will fall victim to ID theft.

Shop Secure Sites Only

When shopping online, utilize only secure sites. Many times, ID theft scams occur when people are shopping online. Every online purchase requires divulging some kind of personal information from a driver's license number to a credit number or Social Security number, or all of the above. If the site on which you are shopping is not secure, then hackers or just about anyone who knows a little about mining sites for data can access your personal information. Always look for the secured site symbol, usually a closed padlock picture beside the Web address or on the bottom of the Web browser, and refuse to purchase anything from a site that is not secure.

Stay Educated

Educate yourself on the various scams that target people for identity theft. There are many scams that ask you send personal information in exchange for monetary compensation or participation in a contest or lottery of some sort. Unless you know for sure that a program or contest is being held through a reputable organization, don't give out anything more than your name. Even providing an address or phone number through one of these contests can set you up to become a victim of ID theft. Be aware of the latest scams (see Resources) and remember that the old adage rings true in this situation: If it sounds too good to be true, it very likely is.

References

• Scambusters
• National Criminal Justice Reference Service

Resources

• Identity Theft Facts
• Snopes Fraud and Scam Reports

[garenarnold]

on 8/22/2009 great information here!