Identity Theft Protection
According to the Federal Trade Commission, around 9 million Americans have their identities stolen every year, and approximately 7% of all adults have their identities misused with each instance resulting in approximately $3,500 in losses. (Source: FTC).
So what can you do about it? Here are ten simple steps you can take to prevent identity theft from happening to you:
- Password protect al
l bank and credit card accounts. Choose passwords that are obscure, difficult to guess and include a mix of numbers and letters. Also, make sure to use a different PIN (Personal Identification Number) for each account. - Place personal information and social security cards in a safe secure location at your home. Never carry your social security card with you.
- Do not disclose personal information over the phone or online unless you know the person you’re talking to.
- Shred or cut up your unwanted mail. A lot of times, junk mail can contain at least some of your personal information. Prevent it from getting into the wrong hands by destroying your unwanted mail before you throw it away.
- Request that your checks be picked up at the bank.
- If your computer has personal information on it, make sure to password-protect it.
- Have your mail sent to your office if you’re self-employed, otherwise, consider getting a PO Box.
- If your keys are stolen or lost, re-key all your locks.
- If your garage opener has been stolen, re-program your garage opener. Also, make sure the door between the garage and your home is locked.
- Opt-out of pre-approved credit card offers. Visit www.optoutprescreen.com to register with the FTC’s official opt-out program.
How do I know if my identity has been stolen?
Here are some of the signs of Identity Theft:
- Your bills stop coming in the mail.
- Credit cards that you haven’t requested or applied for start arriving in the mail.
- Debt collectors contact you to request payment for items you haven’t purchased.
- Letters arrive in the mail denying you for credit cards you never applied for.
What to do if you’re a victim of Identity Theft:
- Contact your local police department and file a report.
- Close any credit or bank accounts that have been compromised.
- Change all of your PIN’s.
- If your driver’s license has been stolen or lost, cancel it and request a replacement.
- Place a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (click here for the online form).
- Place a fraud alert on your credit report.
- Notify your insurance agent or insurance company.
- Must homeowners insurance policies now offer a coverage under your homeowners insurance for Identity theft.
This is just a basic look at the very complicated issue that Identity Theft is. If you’d like more ideas, or are interested in helping to protect yourself with insurance, please contact the Mark Olsen Insurance Agency. We offer a great Identity Theft Insurance policy that can help pay for restoration if your identity is ever stolen. Be safe out there!
-Mark Olsen
1870 Dublin Blvd, Ste E
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
719-593-9916
