ID theft can bring you to tears

October 31, 12:39 PMConsumer News ExaminerBroderick Perkins

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It's not just about losing money to identity theft.

And it's more than the time-is-money spent recovering from the ordeal.

ID theft is also emotionally trying.

When the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) asked Harris International to query consumers about ID theft, the related costs and time topped the list of concerns.

However, the vast majority also said the ordeal would leave them uncertain, insecure and fearful.

The survey found 73 percent were concerned about losing money and 69 percent would fret over spending time to resolve the issue (69 percent), but more than 50 percent said their greatest concerns would be associated with the personal side of being victimized.

• Among adult consumers, 75 percent said their greatest concern would be not knowing who has their personal information.
• Also, 65 percent said their greatest concern would be becoming a victim of ID theft again.
• And 56 percent said knowing that the thief knew where they lived would be one of their greatest concerns.

"Identity theft victimization violates consumers on many levels," said Gail Cunningham, spokeswoman for the NFCC.

"Whereas people previously may have focused on the inconvenience and financial side of recovery, we now know that consumers also associate great personal insecurity with this crime," she added.

To feel better, get over to the NFCC-sponsored ProtectYourIDNow.org (or the Spanish-language version and take advantage of information you can use to protect yourself before, and if it comes to it, after ID theft.

The sites include ID theft prevention tips, informational videos, an interactive quiz to assess your risk of identity theft, and resources for victims.

There's also a blog hosted by ID theft expert Robert Siciliano who provides weekly entries with additional insight, information and advice.