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Identity Theft is a Growing Problem Every year, thousands of people become victims of identity theft. Most people do not realize how easily criminals can obtain personal data. Fraudsters capture PIN numbers by looking over shoulders at checkouts and ATMs. Credit card numbers are recorded by eavesdropping on telephone conversations. And all too often, people become victims of "dumpster divers" by throwing away credit card receipts, bank statements and other records showing their name, address and financial information.
Your name, date of birth, credit card number, and especially your social insurance number can be used to open credit cards and bank accounts, obtain mortgages, rent vehicles, hotel accommodations and even secure employment. When someone steals your identity you could be left with bills, charges, bad cheques and tax implications that can easily cost thousands of dollars in lawyer's fees to clear up.
HOW TO FIGHT IDENTITY THEFT
-Be careful about sharing personal information. Be sure you know who you are dealing with and how it will be used
-Sign all credit cards and bank cards immediately
-Protect your SIN-it is an important key to your identity
-Do not give your credit card number over the phone, by email or voicemail unless you are absolutely sure you can trust the person receiving it
-Immediately report any lost or stolen credit cards
-Ask that your accounts have passwords with a combination of upper and lower case text and have a minimum of 10 characters
-Shred important documents before you throw them out
-Purchase Identity Theft coverage on your home insurance policy
For more information on this topic, contact us. | | | |
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