Dealing With Stolen Identity

"Identity fraud can destroy your credit, as
well as your peace of mind."



The article begins with the story of a female
employee who was victimized by her employer
when her SSN and Driver's License numbers
were used illegally to request new credit cards.
The article later points out that HR departments
have a special duty to safeguard the confidentiality
of personnel information.  HR personnel must
have their backgrounds thoroughly checked.
Theft rings pay really big fees for personnel
information.

Identity fraud has jumped 16-fold between 1992
and 1997.

SOME TIPS FOR YOU:

o  Closely guard or destroy bank and credit card
    statements, pre-approved credit offers, and
    tax information.  There may be enough total
    information for someone to create a false identity.

o  Order a copy of your Credit Report at least once
    a year so that you can check for fraud in your
    record.

o  Don't carry any more of your personal information
    on your person than absolutely necessary, in case
    you lose your wallet or purse.

o  Never throw credit card receipts into public trash
    containers.

o  Take your name off as many marketing lists as
    possible.

o  Lock your mailbox, and never leave outgoing mail
    in your mailbox, as thieves can alter your checks
    and applications.

o  Create passwords and PINs that are very hard to
    guess.

o  If you suspect fraud, contact the fraud departments
    of the major credit bureaus.


The article continues with many other good suggestions
and is highly recommended.