Falling into Autumn in the Rockies

Identity Theft 

Too Close to Home

We all have heard about people having their identity stolen, but few of us actively strive to curb our chances of falling victim to this crime. I, unfortunately, was forced to become more diligent about protecting my information after I fell victim to identity theft. About 7 years ago my information was stolen and the thief opened an electric and gas account under my name at their residence. Needless to say, this was not a huge case of theft, where I had to deal with massive amounts of stolen money, but someone had enough of my information to open an account. It took weeks to extinguish the debt and notify all of the authorities. I wanted to share this story in hopes that we will all be more diligent about withholding and protecting our identities and information.

What is Identity Theft and Fraud?

This crime occurs when someone wrongfully obtains and uses another person’s personal data in some way that involves fraud or deception, typically for an economic gain. The most common ways to commit identity theft are: Ease Dropping or Shoulder Surfing in public places. Dumpster Diving to get bills, copies of checks, statements, phone numbers in the trash. Stealing Pre-approved Credit Card Applications that you fill out or leave blank and throw in the trash and do not tear or shred in pieces. Online Passwords and Account Numbers can be obtained by hackers or when people respond to emails that state they need your updated account or personal information.

Prevention

1)       Be stingy about giving out your private information to others.2)       Start by adopting a need to know approach. If a person calls you and asks for your personal info or claims they are the bank tell them you will call them back or that they can send you an enquiry in writing.3)       Don’t put more information on your personal checks than you have to.4)       If you leave town have your mail held at the post office or picked up.5)       Check you financial information regularly, check your lists of transactions, make sure you receive monthly bills and statements.6)       Ask for a copy of your credit report, periodically.7)       Maintain careful records of your banking and financial accounts. If you have a dispute or charges against you, you want to have proof and records of your statements and transactions to prove it.        You can freeze your credit file. When you freeze your credit file, nobody even you- can use it. To open a new account you can lift the freeze temporarily if you want to apply for a mortgage, auto loan or personal credit card yourself. For more information visit consumersunion.org/securityfreeze.htm9)       Ask your providers or account holders to add an additional password for you to access your accounts.If you have been a victim contact the Federal Trade Commission to report the situation at 1-877-ID-THEFT. Call the fraud units of the 3 principle credit reporting companies at (1-800-525-6285, 1-888-EXPERIAN, 1-800-680-7289)