Identity Theft is a Major Problem.  Protect Yourself and Your Family.

Pointers on Preventing Identity Theft from the Experts:
Don't carry around Social Security Card, Passport or Birth Certificate unless absolutely necessary.
Make up a list of all financial account numbers and how to contact each of them.
Secure your computer by making sure you have anti-virus and anti-spyware software installed and use it.
  Watch What you do with old checks, leftover checks, deposit slips and bank statements .  SHRED THEM!
  Watch what you throw away.  When in doubt, SHRED IT!
Regularly monitor bank accounts and credit accounts.  Be aware of your financial institutions' security records.
Watch out for phishing and other similar scams.  If you don't know what phishing is, Google it and educate yourself.
Secure your purse and/or wallet.  Many times, identity theft occurs when someone simply steals them.

 

Did you know?

The Federal Trade Commission data shows that Identity Theft is the Fastest Growing U.S. Crime..for the 7th straight year.

1 in 6 Americans are directly affected by identity theft.

Identity Theft costs U.S. consumers and businesses $50 billion a year.

Identity theft is 25 times more likely to happen than having your car stolen.  But, your stolen car parts are sold only once; A stolen identity will be used up to 30 times.

You could spend 300 to 600 personal hours to restore a stolen identity.  25% never recover. 

Your personal data is EVERYWHERE
Health Care Providers, Utility Companies
Stores, Restaurants, Hotels, Airlines
The Internet, E-Mail
Recycling Bins and Dumpsters
With People That You Know (highest % of theft occurs here)

OnGuard Online - Identity Theft Quiz