Preventing Identity Theft
Here are some sure signs your identify has been stolen:
- You were buying Junior a gift on eBay and you noticed your house is listed for sale.
- You got a call asking when you want the pool installed, buy you live in an apartment.
- You tried to pay for groceries with a credit card and they called for SWAT.
- Your wife/husband just served you with divorce papers, but you don't remember ever getting married.
- You get a post card from yourself that says, "Wish you were here!"
- You're wanted in Mexico and you've never left Lakeland.
Anyone who has ever been the victim of identity theft can relate to these situations. They can also tell you that while humor is good for the soul, there is nothing but troubles ahead for the victims of identity theft.
The National Crime Prevention Council and the U.S. Bureau of Justice Assistance have produced a Guide to Preventing Identity Theft that you can download here in .pdf format. We recommend everyone take an opportunity to practice the following tips to reduce your chances of becoming a victim.
- Do not put outgoing mail, especially bill payments, in personal curbside mailboxes that are unsecured. Use United States Postal Services mailboxes, preferably inside a post office.
- Protect your important personal information like driver's license or social security number. Do not give this information to anyone unless absolutely necessary.
- Shred financial records before throwing them away.
- Be alert for anyone calling you from your bank and trying to get your assistance in a bank investigation by asking for your personal information.
- Do not store your passwords or PIN numbers with your credit or debit cards. Commit passwords and PIN numbers to memory.
- Be suspicious of any e-mails from legitimate looking businesses that seek personal information. "Phishing" for information via e-mails is a rapidly growing trend in identity theft.
Contact your local law enforcement agency immediately if you think you are the victim of identity theft.
- Asst Chief Bill LePere
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