Senior consumers can protect themselves with tips from the Savvy Senior

• I was reading an article last month about identity theft and how seniors have become a primary target.
• Can you tell me more about this problem and what I can do to protect myself?
• Identity theft is a big problem that has become the fastest growing crime in the United States.
• Identity theft occurs when someone obtains access to your Social Security number (SSN), bank or credit card account number, or other identifying information and uses it to steal from you.
• For example, they can get it by stealing your purse or wallet, taking your mail, rummaging through your trash or simply asking you for it through some type of scam.
• Empty your mailbox quickly, or get a locked mailbox or P.O. Box.
• You can cut down the junk mail and e-mail you receive at the Direct Marketing Association Consumer Assistance Web site at www.dmaconsumers.org.
• To stop telemarketers, call the National Do Not Call Registry at 888-382-1222 or visit www.donotcall.gov.
• And, to opt out of future credit card solicitations call the credit reporting industry at 888-567-8688 (they will ask for your SSN).
• # Review your credit card statements carefully and request a copy of your credit report every year and check it for errors.
• You can get a free annual copy from each of the three major credit reporting agencies by calling 877-322-8228, or visit www.annualcreditreport.com.
• # First, contact the fraud departments of each of the three major credit bureaus and place a "fraud alert" on your credit file (Equifax 800-525-6285, Experian 888-397-3742 and Trans Union 800-680-7289).
• Federal Trade Commission Identity Theft Resource Center: Provides a clearinghouse of consumer friendly information and resources including a variety of free publications.