Don't be a victim of identity theft

  • Published
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy-- --  In the course of a busy day, many people write checks for purchases on base, use credit cards online, mail bills, use cell phones or apply for credits card. They probably don't give these everyday transactions a second thought, but identity thieves might.

Identity thieves can acquire personal information in many ways. They steal information; dumpster dive, and get information on the Internet. They may also pose as a landlord, employer, bank or anyone who might have a legitimate need or legal right to someone's personal information.

With the advent of social media access, people should be aware of posting information and pictures. This information can be used to gain information about one's identity or deceive other people into divulging personal information, also known as phishing.

Once identity thieves get someone's information, it can be used anywhere. Pretending to be the person they stole the information from, they call credit card issuers and ask to change the mailing address on accounts. Then the imposter runs up charges on accounts without the victim's knowledge because the bills are being sent to the new address. They also open new accounts, establish phone or Internet services, or open bank accounts and write bad checks on it. They may also file for bankruptcy under the fake name to avoid paying debts acquired under that name or eviction. They may even counterfeit checks or debit cards and drain bank accounts of their victims or take out loans.

To guard against identity theft, manage this information wisely, cautiously and with an awareness of the issue. Be sure to find out how personal information will be used and if it will be shared with others before revealing it. Paying attention to bill cycles and putting passwords on credit cards, and bank accounts can help protect against identity theft.

Being aware of phishing scams can help protect information as well. Don't respond to emails stating, "your account information needs to be updated," or that, "the credit card you signed up with is invalid or expired and the information needs to be reentered to keep your account active," without checking with the companies first.

ID Theft Tips:

If there is a reason to believe that an identity thief has tampered with any of the accounts, close them immediately. If opening new accounts, be sure to have new personal identification numbers and passwords.

Call the fraud departments of the major credit bureaus Equifax, Trans Union, and Experian. Report identity theft and request a "fraud alert" alert be placed on file. Also, ask for a victim's statements asking that creditors call before opening any new accounts or making any changes to existing accounts. Review reports carefully to make sure no additional fraudulent accounts have been opened in one's name or unauthorized changes made to one's existing accounts. In a few months, order new copies of reports to verify corrections and changes, and to make sure no new fraudulent activity has occurred.

File a report with the local police department or the police in the community where the identity theft took place. Keep a copy of the police reports in case creditors want to see proof of the crimes.

Lastly, the Federal Trade Commission collects complaints about identity theft from consumers who have been victimized. The FTC can help victims of identity theft by providing information to help them resolve the financial and other problems resulting from this crime. The FTC also refers victim complaints to other appropriate government agencies and private organizations for further action.

File a complaint with the FTC by contacting the Identity Theft Hotline toll-free at 1-877-IDTHEFT (438-4338); TDD: 202-326-2502 or online: http://consumer.gov/ncpw/category/identity-theft-privacy/.