PRESENTED BY: ASHLEY CLOUSER (CONNER) Identity Theft

Definition: Form of fraud/cheating of another person’s identity in which someone pretends to be someone else by assuming that person’s identity  Typically in order to access resources or obtain credit and other benefits in that person’s name

What is Identity? Foundation of one’s life Unique to each person Defines a person in society Makes an entity definable and recognizable

Awareness Rapidly becoming the most popular crime today It is easier than you think Require only a single successful attempt in order to steal everything that is your life. If they get access to your data it can result in financial ruin, or worse, criminal activities which are attributed to you because they were committed under your identity. Thankfully, there are ways to prevent identity theft, and options which you can pursue if you should ever become a victim of this terrible crime.

It’s That Easy!

How can someone steal my identity? They may steal records or information while they're on the job, bribing an employee who has access to these records, hacking these records, conning information out of employees They may steal your mail, including bank and credit card statements, pre-approved credit card offers, new checks, and tax information. They may rummage through your trash, the trash of businesses, or public trash dumps in a practice known as "dumpster diving." They may get your credit reports by abusing their employer's authorized access to them or by posing as a landlord, employer, or someone else who may have a legal right to access your report.

Cont… They may steal your credit or debit card numbers by capturing the information in a data storage device through a practice known as "skimming." They may swipe your card for an actual purchase or attach the device to an ATM machine where you may enter or swipe your card. They may steal your wallet or purse. They may complete a "change of address form" to divert your mail to another location. They may steal personal information they find in your home. They may steal personal information from you through or phone by posing as legitimate companies and claiming that you have a problem with your account. This practice is known as "phishing" online or by phone.

Prevention Personal Information Postal Mail Computer Trash Safeguard

Personal Information Some information will inevitably be made public  Full Name, Address, Phone Number, Birth Date Other information should be kept private  Social Security Number, Bank Account Number, Credit Card Number, PIN’s and Passwords Monitor credit closely  Watch for suspicious signs, identity protection services Keep records of your financial data and transactions

Postal Mail Don’t leave mail in your mailbox for excessive amounts of time Have trust relatives/friends get mail or have mail held at the post office when your out of town Deposit of outgoing mail in proper and secure locations

Your Personal Computer Use an updated web browser Invest in security software  Firewall, anti-virus, anti-spyware Make sure online shopping sites are secure and trustworthy  If the site doesn’t have a lock on the bottom right-hand side don’t use it! Be wary of attachments  and instant messages Firewall your wireless internet connection If you sell or get rid of your computer make sure to delete the hard drive

Your Personal Trash Personal documents should be shredded before discarding them into the trash.  These Included:  Bank statements  Credit Card Statements  Pre-approved credit card offers  Paystubs  Expired passports, visas, and credit cards  Canceled credit cards  ATM receipts  Canceled/Voided checks  Bills ---Like the old saying goes, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.”

Safeguarding Your Identity… Do NOT keep your Social Security card in your wallet Use your ATM card wisely If a credit or debit card gets lost or stolen report immediately Guard your checkbook Do NOT provide personal information over the phone Do NOT list birth date/social security number on resume Check your bills/bank statements when they arrive Check your credit reports for free Opt out of pre-approved offers Select strong passwords Secure personal information in your own home Always know who and when others have your information

What to do if victimized? File a police report Notify your banks/credit card issuers Notify the three major credit bureaus File a complaint with FTC

Questions Please don’t hesitate to notify your supervisor if you have any questions or suspect identity theft.

References he_ultimate_gu.html he_ultimate_gu.html -id-theft/ -id-theft/ Awareness,-Prevention,-Recovery&id= Awareness,-Prevention,-Recovery&id=216936