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Helps in fighting back identity Fraud

You may have noticed, but the Federal Trade Commission is trying to help consumers fight identity fraud.Their literature outlines three phases of protection:Deter, Detect, and Defend.

Deter:

  • Shred financial documents and personal information. (Just think, that old tax return thrown in the trash can linger at the dump for a very long time.)

  • Protect your social security number: Do not carry your card; never write it on a check; don't give it over the phone to unknown callers.

  • Do not give out personal information on the phone, internet, or mail unless it is a secured site. (The bottom of secured pages used in money transactions have a seal linked to a web site that certifies that the site is secure.)

  • Never click on links sent in unsolicited e-mails, but type in the address.

  • Don't use obvious passwords like: birthdate, maiden name, last four of social.

  • Keep you personal information in a secure place, especially if you have roommates, domestic help, and parties.

Detect:

  • Periodically run a free credit report

  • Review your credit card and bank statements each month.

  • Register for online banking. You can set up alerts that e-mail you when certain events happen in addition to letting you know your balance at all times.

Defend:

  • If your identity is compromised, place a "Fraud Alert" on your credit reports, and review carefully.

  • Close accounts tampered.

  • File a police report. Law enforcement officers may help with creditors who may want proof of the crime.

  • Report theft to FTC. Ftc.gov/idtheft

Common Thefts:

  • Dumpster Diving: Rummaging through trash

  • Skimming: Stolen credit/debit card numbers using a special device when processing your card.

  • Phishing: Information sent by the thief masquerading as a bank or financial institution.

  • Change of Address: Diverts your mail with a change of address form.

  • Stealing

We help safeguard our client's information both in their business and personal lives.

 

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