Are You An Easy Target Of Identity Theft?

Identity theft is becoming the most common fraud around the world. Millions upon millions of people use the internet each and every day. Do you know that anyone can steal or take your identity? They will take or credit card information, banking information, social security number, date of birth, or your mother's maiden name. It only takes a second and they can open new credit card, checking or savings accounts or use your name to commit fraud and you may not even realize it until the police or creditors come knocking on your door!

How Thieves Find Your Information

Do you know the ways how identity thieves find your information? Methods used to take your information right in front of you without you being aware of it? By not knowing these methods you may be making yourself a very easy target! One method is called "phishing," also called "carding" or "web-spoofing." It involves high tech means to fraudulently impersonate a financial institution, retailer, credit card companies, or another agency and they will trick customers into disclosing their personal information. This is done through fake emails, web sites and internet addresses.

Victim Contacts

If you are a victim of identity theft, contact the fraud department and other financial institutions where you have an account. Advise them of the identity theft. Request that they restrict your account. You may also close your account and get a new number. You will want to request a credit report every year to keep track yourself against fraud. You should file a report with your local police department. File a complaint with the FTC. The sooner you report the fraud the less damage will be done to your identity.

Make Your Children Aware

You should also be aware of your child/children's activities on the internet. Make sure to educate your children about privacy and safety when communicating online. Learn the forums and chat room rules, you should be talking to your children about the things that will help and protect them in their online experiences. Thieves will strike up a conversation about them and then start talking about you and your family to find out names and more personal information from them. So it is important that you talk to your kids about identity theft before thieves steal the identities of your entire family as well.

Make Yourself Aware

Whether you think you've been a victim or not you need to know that your information may already be at risk. If you know that you've already been victimized you'll want to take the immediate steps to restore your credit and prevent further victimization. There are many good resources available online. Check your bank or credit union and credit card companies for information on Identity Theft. Your State Attorney General's office may also have useful information to help you fight to get your identity back.

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