Ten Tips to Reduce Your Risk of Identity Theft
Identity theft is on the rise. A recent Federal Trade Commission survey found that 27.3 million Americans were victims of identity theft between 1998 and 2003, including 9.9 million people in the previous year. Identity theft costs businesses and financial institutions nearly $48 billion and consumer victims reported $5 billion in out-of-pocket expenses in 2002 alone.Individuals alone cannot prevent identity theft. While you may do an excellent job safeguarding your own personal information, companies that profit from our information often have inadequate security standards. In addition to supporting strong implementation of consumer protection laws, here are ten steps you can take in your own daily life to reduce your chance of becoming a victim:
1. Secure your personal information
2. Protect you social security number
3. Tell companies not to sell or share your data
4. No "Phishing"
5. Be careful on the Internet
6. Keep track of your financial accounts
7. Monitor your credit reports
8. Take control over your credit
9. Demand strong protections
10. Be active
Contact the Credit Reporting Agencies