Identity Theft Awareness

from Crime Victim Center

Every 3.2 seconds someone in the United States becomes a victim of Identity Theft. It is the nation's fastest growing crime. Unfortunately, seniors are easy targets. In 2007, 22% of victims were ages 60 and older. Anyone can be a victim from the very young to the deceased. According to the Social Security Administration, seniors, the critically ill, and the deceased are appealing targets because of their significant assets, their good credit, and federal entitlement checks.

By nature, seniors are more trusting and isolated from family and friends and more gullible to technology-based scams. It has been reported that there have been organized groups of identity thieves operating in nursing homes. Because the elderly are often too ashamed or confused to come forward, it is being called the silent epidemic.

One's identity and personal information can be obtained by a thief as easy as the thief filling out a change of address form in the victim's name; stealing a wallet or purse; obtaining a credit report by posing as an authority figure such as a landlord; searching through the victim's garbage; phone and computer scams; and looking over the victim's shoulder at an ATM machine or doctor's office. Theses are only a few of the scams that are occurring everyday. To reduce your risk it is important to get a free credit report every year; keep personal information in a secure place; be cautious when having phone conversations in a public area; shred personal information, do not put it in the garbage; and carry only what you need in your wallet or purse. These are only a few suggestions to follow.

If you are a victim, it is important that you contact the fraud departments of the three major credit bureaus; close all accounts that have been tampered with; file a police report; contact the Federal Trade Commission to file a complaint; and contact the Crime Victim Center. There are a growing number of companies out there today who offer protection for a fee to protect your identity. Be careful to do some research before you turn over your personal information. Ultimately, being educated and aware of your surroundings and the people you associate with will reduce your risk.

Contact the Crime Victim Center at (814) 455-9515, for more information.