Identity theft Happens Predominantly Offline

prostoalex writes "Worried about identity theft online? Relax, say the Feds. You're much more likely to have your identity stolen offline (72% of the cases). In half of all the cases, it's the friendly relatives, neighbors and friends who steal the identity of the victim. Moreover, those watching their financial accounts online lose approximately $551 per incident. The average rockets to $4543 for those relying on paper statements from their banks and credit card companies."

Comments

Now is the time..

[Norgus]

To start stealing IDs online, you guys are WAY behind your quota!

Re:this is why

[Rosco P. Coltrane]

The best purchase you can make is a paper shredder, preferably a cross-cut model. When you get your mail, either shred it, or file it right away.

You're so right! I do that with email too: print them, then shred them thin. No more spam or viruses, nosiree.

Re:It amazes me how bad retailers are

[Rosco P. Coltrane]

I worked in retail for awhile, I learned a trick for myself. I write "ASK FOR ID" on the back of all my credit/debit cards. RARELY do i have someone ask to see my identification, no matter where I go. it amazes me how easily it is to get away with small things like this.

Personally, I write "THIS CARD IS STOLEN!" on the back of mine. That way, I'm extra sure it'll be reported the very minute it's used after it's stolen.

has your social security number been stolen?

[peter303]

Type your social security number here: _________________ and see if it is on the stolen number list.

Prevent fraudulent use of your Credit card

[servognome]

Keep them maxed out. Sure they can have my credit card number, but just wait until they get that look of shame when they try to use it.