Identity Theft Still Going Strong

While the United States may have a better handle on many crimes than it did ten years ago, one continues to grow and find ways to escape authorities - identity theft. Affecting millions of people and causing billions in lost funds, identity theft doesn’t appear to be slowing down any time soon. One of the main difficulties in deterring identity theft is that advancing technology is constantly allowing new ways for it to be committed. State governments and credit agencies are taking notice and have implemented some new prevention measures. Here’s an updated look at ways to prevent identity theft.

Updated Identity Theft Tips

If you’re worried about a possible identity theft, call your credit bureau and ask for a freeze on your report. A law passed last year allows you to put a freeze on your credit report should you suspect any wrong doing. The freeze stops anyone from viewing the report or opening new lines of credit in your name.
Even if you don’t suspect identity theft, you should thoroughly review your credit card and bank account statements every month. It’s important to catch any possible instances of identity theft or fraud early so that you don’t end up liable for any charges or lost funds.
Are you tired of receiving all of those pre-approved credit offers in the mail? Aside from being a major annoyance, they’re also a major identity theft risk. Fortunately, you can stop receiving them by calling 888-5OPTOUT.
Should you fall victim to identity theft, file a police report on the matter. It may not do a lot of good in getting your identity back right away, but it could eventually lead to the criminal’s arrest.
Want to make it really difficult for anyone to open a credit card in your name? You can call credit bureaus to place fraud alerts on your credit report that requires them to take additional steps in verifying your identity. You can even ask them to call you before approving any new lines of credit.
You can avoid having to deal with identity theft all together by signing up for an identity theft protection service. They can place freezes on your accounts, stop junk mail, and guarantee your money should an identity theft ever occur.

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