1 Identity Theft Occurs “when the perpetrator wrongfully acquires and uses a consumer’s personal information, credit or account information.” –Used to obtain money, credit, goods or other things of value in the victim’s name You probably won’t know when this occurs and it will take time and money to fix.

2 How It Occurs Mail Theft Dumpster diving Insider access Purse/wallet loss or snatch Computers and Internet incursions Telephone scams to pry information

3 Protecting Yourself Don’t carry or give out SSN Pick up all CC and ATM receipts Mail boxes – put payments in postal box Shred: pre-approved CC’s and convenience checks Review CC and all other bills Get credit report each year

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5 What If? Act quickly, report promptly to police Call CC issuers Call credit bureaus’ fraud unit – place alert Checks stolen? –Close account, get new ATM