Quote:
In the last year alone, nearly 10 million Americans became victims of identity theft, a crime that cost them approximately $5 billion total. It is the fastest growing crime in the United States, and if you're not careful, it could happen to you, or perhaps it already has. On average, it takes identity theft victims 12 months [PDF] to realize that they have been victimized.
Investing in a confetti cut shedder and shed all of your mail and put them in those shinny bags that are tear proof once sealed. Don't give out your SSN or TIN # to anyone.Quote:
In the last year alone, nearly 10 million Americans became victims of identity theft, a crime that cost them approximately $5 billion total. It is the fastest growing crime in the United States, and if you're not careful, it could happen to you, or perhaps it already has. On average, it takes identity theft victims 12 months [PDF] to realize that they have been victimized.
Story: I had a buddy of mine years ago was applying for a phone line in his basement for his dial-up account. They asked him for his SSN #. He refused to give it to them. He told them that's not what the SSN # is for. So he had to pay a $1000 deposit to establish local service. He was being punished because he didn't give out his #. They were mad cause they couldn't run a credit check. They didn't turn on his long distance til a year later. After 2 years later he got his deposit back.