How to prevent identity theft

The problem of identity theft is escalating. It is one of the most personally devastating personal crimes being committed. Perpetrators have long been sought after and prosecuted. However, safe guarding social security cards should become the legal responsibility of not only individual but those entrusted with such important information.

People’s lives are being affected. Human Resources, departments within the business organizations responsible for protecting private information, are being held responsible. Individuals need to spend countless hours contending with irate creditors and spending additional monies to rectify the problem. They are being denied credit at crucial times and even personal relationships are being affected. Juries, citing mental anguish, are awarding compensation to individuals who have been victimized by identity theft. An unprecedented legal case in Michigan has set the stage for times to come. Union members were awarded $275,000.00 from their union, as it was determined that they were negligent in safeguarding social security numbers and driver’s license numbers.

Legislatures are being called upon to establish guidelines and create laws that determine the responsibilities for employers and anyone who may be entrusted with social security numbers, driver’s license numbers and other such private information. The effectiveness of such laws will be determined by the public and their acceptance of the need for such laws. The public needs to be educated to the seriousness of the problem and what they can do to prevent the problem. The media should take charge of their role by informing the public of the severity of the problem. Individuals must be asking anyone they share their social security number and other privileged information how they safeguard such important data prior to releasing such private information.

Identity theft can happen to anyone. An individual’s identity can be used and their financial profile may be in the process of being tarnished long before there is any awareness on their part.

Individuals should report the problem to the Federal Trade Commission immediately (1-877-ID-THEFT). Identity thieves are savvy. They are masters at covering their tails. By reporting identity thieves immediately, officials have a better chance of tracking the people committing the fraud.

Prevention is always the best measure. Check your credit card bills and bank statements often and in detail. Shred any documents that have your name and any other information on it. Identity thieves are known to be “dumpster divers.”

Do not give any personal information over the phone, including texting, or over the Internet without knowing who you are dealing with and ensuring that proper security measures are being taken.

Should your wallet or purse be stolen, report this to your credit institutions immediately.

If you receive any mail stating that you are overdue on a bill, inquire immediately but do not give out personal information without establishing that you are dealing with a legitimate organization. Identity thieves may have set up numerous accounts at a false address using your information unbeknownst to you. It may only be when you check your credit rating that you become aware. Thus, check your credit score often.

It is your right to know what is happening to your personal information. Do not be shy about insisting that your information is protected by anyone you entrust to it.