Thieves Want to Steal Your Identity
Most people do not realize how easily criminal elements can obtain personal data without ever entering our homes or place of business. Many times we make it easy to obtain our personal data by throwing away rather than shredding our personal checks, bank statements, or credit card bills. There may be enough public information via the internet to compromise your personal information such as social security numbers, birth dates etc.
Safeguard Your Personal Information
Be careful when giving out your social security number, credit card or other account information. Never give this information to someone who calls you unless you are certain who they are and that they legitimately need this information. Do not include such information in emails, text messages or other electronic messages. When using ATM’s or entering PIN at the cash register, carefully shield the key pad and your hand movements so others can not see the number or the number pattern.
Identity Theft Websites
For further information and tips on avoiding identity theft, you may wish to visit the United States Department of Justice’s web site:
http://www.usdoj.gov/criminal/fraud/websites/idtheft.html
If you are a victim of identity theft, you might find the Utah Attorney General web page helpful:
http://www.idtheft.utah.gov/
