Identity Theft Prevention

IDENTITY THEFT
TIPS ON PREVENTING & RESOLVING PROBLEMS

In today’s high tech, information-driven, data-based society, your identity is defined by much more than just your name and address. Your social security number, bank accounts, credit card information, driver’s license and even your telephone numbers define you to financial institutions and government agencies alike. Unfortunately, there are too many thieves and crooks roaming around the neighborhood, “phishing” the Internet or, in some cases, working inside various agencies or companies just looking for an opportunity to steal your identity. These scurrilous individuals are looking for any chance to get their hands on an important piece of your personal information. Identity theft is a crime and you need to be aware of the consequences and be informed as to the steps to take to help protect yourself.

Stolen wallets and purses are an obvious source of such information for identity thieves. But do you know that they also steal information by raiding mail boxes and going through household garbage? They might attempt a theft by claiming to be a legitimate company soliciting information from you. While it is difficult to protect yourself to the extent that this type of crime could never happen to you, there are some very useful steps that you can take to minimize the chances that your life could be thrown into turmoil as a result of your identity being illegally used by others.

• Whether mail, phone or Internet, only give information if you have initiated the contact or are sure of whom you are doing business with.

•  Don’t leave mail containing sensitive information in your mailbox for pickup. Remove your mail promptly from your mailbox.

•  Don’t carry your Social Security card with you.

•  Pay attention to bills you receive – check the transactions for accuracy.

•  Be cautious if you use a personal computer. Make sure you have updated virus protection. Don’t open files from unknown sources. Don’t click on hyperlinks that “pop up.” Only do business on secure web sites – those with a padlock icon displayed.
  

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has a terrific, informational Identity Theft web site at www.consumer.gov/idtheft . Also, if you believe that you have been the victim of a scam, you may file a complaint at www.ftc.gov . The New York State Attorney General has information at www.oag.state.ny.us/consumer/tips/identity_theft.html . We encourage you to use all the resources at your disposal.