WHAT IS IDENTITY THEFT?

Identity theft is when someone pretends to be someone else.  Typically this is done as a way to access credit and other financial gain.

There are multiple forms of identity theft, below are a few examples.

• Social Security Theft- A criminal can create a whole new identity with a social security number.  We give our social security number so freely to just about anyone who asks.  When you are at the doctor’s
• Drivers License Theft- Be very careful to protect your driver’s license number.  There have been a lot of people who have been stopped for a simple traffic violation only to find they are under arrest for multiple driving violations.  Unfortunately the offenses were committed by someone who had a fake license in your name.
• Medical Identity Theft- This is very serious with huge negative consequences.  Given the state of healthcare these days many people are desperate for medical care.  Once again, once they have access to your social security number they can assume you.  The dangerous part is when they start seeking medical care as you.  Next thing you know you go to the doctor for a routine appointment and find out you were recently diagnoses with HIV.  It could take years to get your proper medical charts back in order.
• Criminal Identity Theft- The criminal commits a crime and when they give up the documentation to support who they are they give up documentation with your information.  Imagine again finding out that you have been involved in a crime.  This can be a horrific experience and you may need to seek the advice and/or legal counsel from a professional.

In the event that you suspect that you may be the victim of any of these types of situations do your best to get out ahead of the problem.  Change your passwords immediately and notify the proper authorities and credit bureaus.

National Credit-Reporting Bureaus

Equifax   

P.O. Box 740256, Atlanta, GA 30374

800-685-1111

www.equifax.com

Experian

P.O. Box 2002, Allen, TX 75013

888-397-3742

www.experian.com

TransUnion  

P.O. Box 2000, Chester, PA 19022

800-888-4213

www.transunion.com

Please feel free to comment if you have been the victim of any of these types of fraud.

Until next time...

-Vicki