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It might surprise you the lengths criminals go in order to steal your personal information for the purposes of committing fraud against you.
Criminals will engage in acts such as "dumpster diving" to retrieve copies of anything that may have your personal information printed. This includes account numbers, license numbers, bank statements, telephone logs, and social security numbers.
Have you ever received a "pre-approved" credit card application in the mail? Of course you probably have. Guess what? Criminals often complete the form for you and simply change the address to their mailing address. In a short time they have a new credit card - in your name.
What about the internet?
Criminals engage in spam for many reasons but one main reason is to obtain passwords to online bank information or personal data they can use to steal from you or perpetrate crimes on others in your name.
How can you protect yourself?
Be very careful when someone contacts you by phone, email or regular mail who asks for personal information. Your bank, for example, will never ask for your personal information over the internet. Yet, so many consumers routinely fall for that scheme by giving information to someone over the phone or email posing as an officer of their bank.
Own a shredder. They are relatively inexpensive these days. By shredding every document with personal information you help protect your private information from unwanted eyes.
Buy a locking mail box. These types of mail boxes can be purchased from a hardware store, Home Depot or Lowes. They allow someone to put mail into your box (USPS delivery person) but no one can withdraw mail without the key. This can help protect against mail theft.
What happens if you are a victim to Identity Theft or Identity Fraud?
Contact the Federal Trade Commission. You can easily find their phone number on the internet. Contact the United States Postal Inspector if you suspect the crime occurred via the mail system. Contact the Social Security Administration is you believe your social security number is being used fraudulently.
Then you may want to contact the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union.
If you are considering filing bankruptcy, contact a bankruptcy attorney found on our website for more assistance!