Identity
Theft– A Growing Problem
Identity Tips
Identity
Theft– A Growing Problem
Identity
theft occurs when someone wrongfully uses your personal identification to obtain
credit, loans, services, even rentals and mortgages in your name.
Information can be stolen from a consumer in a variety of ways including:
Going through your mail or trash to take pre-approved credit card offers,
discarded receipts or other personal information; stealing your purse or wallet;
calling you over the phone posing as a solicitor in order to gain personal
information including date of birth and social security number or looking over
your shoulder at an ATM while you are accessing your account, to steal your
password, or pin.
Avoid
becoming a victim: Order copies of your credit report from all 3 credit
reporting agencies to get as much information as possible. Contact the credit
reporting agencies in writing and let them know you are disputing inaccurate
items in your credit report due to possible identity theft. Contact the credit
card companies who are reporting the false debt and have them investigate
possible identity theft. Keep all copies of all letters; document phone calls
and request a letter from the agencies stating these items are under
investigation. Do not carry important documents such as your social security
card, birth certificate or passport unless
absolutely necessary.
Only carry the credit cards in your purse or wallet that you need when shopping. Keep a list of your credit card account numbers, with expiration dates and telephone numbers for all your bank accounts and keep them in a safe location. In an emergency, you can notify these companies quickly to avoid fraudulent charges or purchases. Invest in a shredder and shred discarded papers with your information. Use a mix of letters and numbers when creating passwords.
As always, report suspicious activity to Public Safety RIGHT AWAY! @
The Morningside Campus 854-5555 or 99 on campus. @ The Medical Center Campus
305-8100 or