Identity Theft is loosely defined as a crime involving the stealing of personal data to be used for another’s economic gain.

This data may include, but is not limited to:

• social security numbers
• driver’s license numbers
• credit card information
• bank account numbers

This crime is often committed without the victim’s knowledge and is one of the fastest growing crimes in the United States today. Information may be obtained in many ways, here are some examples:

• stealing your wallet or purse
• stealing your mail
• getting personal data from your trash
• finding personal information that you share online
• posing as a legitimate company over email and request your personal info

The experience can be devastating for victims; it can take years to restore a good credit record and even longer to clear a good name. With identity theft, the best defense is a good offense, meaning that being proactive, cautious and careful is the best way to protect yourself from becoming a victim.

Watch a screencast about fraud.

To Avoid Identity Theft

• memorize your Social Security Number (SSN) and passwords, do not carry them with you
• order your free credit report every year and review for accuracy
• shred credit card offers before discarding them
• reconcile your credit card and bank statements monthly and report any inconsistencies immediately
• do not use your social security number as an identifier unless absolutely necessary
• do not give personal or financial information over the phone or internet unless absolutely sure of who is requesting it
• report lost or stolen cards immediately
• do not open or download files or links sent to you by strangers

What to do if your identity is stolen

1. Contact the fraud department of the three major credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your account.
   • Equifax
   • Experian
   • TransUnion
2. Close any acccounts that you believe to be compromised
3. File a report with the Federal Trade Comission
4. File a police report