Originally published February 26 2006
Naples newspaper offers information to help deter ID theft
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
ID theft is one of America's fastest growing crimes because of the lack of education on the issue, so The Naples Sun Times offers important things to know.
In the course of a busy day, you may write a check at the grocery store, charge tickets to a ball game, rent a car, mail your tax return, call home on your cell phone, order new checks or apply for a credit card.
There are various ways identity thieves get your personal information: * They steal wallets and purses containing your identification and credit and bank cards.
* They steal your mail, including your bank and credit card statements, pre-approved credit offers, new checks and tax information.
* They scam you, often through e-mail, by posing as legitimate companies or government agencies with which you do business.
* They get your information through the work place in a practice known as business record theft by stealing files out of offices where you are a customer, employee, patient or student.
Minimize your risk: While you probably can't prevent identity theft entirely, you can minimize your risk.
By managing your personal information wisely, cautiously and with an awareness of the issue, you can help guard against identity theft.
What you can do: * Place passwords on your credit card, bank and phone accounts.
* Don't carry your Social Security card; leave it in a secure place.
* Keep your purse and wallet in a safe place at work.
If you are a victim: * Place a fraud alert on your credit reports and regularly review your credit reports.
* File a report with your local police or the police in the community where the identity theft took place.
Tips on organizing your case: * Accurate and complete records will greatly improve your chances of resolving your identity theft case.
With these tips, you can reduce your chances of becoming a crime victim.
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