Identity theft—what you can do

June 8, 4:14 PMIdentity Theft ExaminerJoe Campana

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“Identity theft” elicits different reactions—apathy, fear or concern. The apathetic are typically those who do not understand what identity theft is and how identity thieves can victimize them. Often, the fearful are those that neither understand how to control their fate as victims or how to take preventive steps to control their destiny. The concerned generally understand the crime, how to prevent it and keep identity theft on their personal radar.

Here a five things that everyone can do.

Learn what identity theft is and what it is not. Most people associate identity theft with credit cards and checking accounts or financial fraud. Identity theft reaches into all corners of our life—employment, medical, character, insurance, retirement, business and family—children, parents and deceased relatives.

Prevent identity theft by taking appropriate actions to minimize the risks to you and your family. While identity theft cannot be completely prevented, you can take simple steps to minimize the risks.

Recognize the warning signs that you may be a victim, and take immediate action to protect your good name. It is common for victims to recognize warning signs but do nothing until the situation becomes catastrophic. Act immediately upon the first clue that you may be a victim.

Voice your concern to businesses and organizations that you entrust personal information with. Although there are many federal and state laws governing privacy and information security, most organizations—businesses, schools, non-profits and government do not comply with the laws. Before you provide personal and financial information including credit cards to any organization, ask what privacy and information security laws they comply with. If they do not know, think twice about sharing your information or do so in protest. If you own or operate a business, is your business in compliance?

Subscribe to a service that can help you reduce your risk of identity theft and liabilities if you become a victim. Only do so if you see value in the service and you understand exactly how the identity theft services will benefit you. Although you can do much to reduce risks and resolve identity theft, most people do not have the time or the knowhow to do what is necessary. This is where identity theft services come into play just as a landscaping or car maintenance service does.

Be concerned, not apathetic or fearful. In future articles, I will cover each of these five topics in more depth. 

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