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Prevent Identity theft from happening to you
Unfortunately, all types of criminal fraud including identity theft are becoming more prevalent. Seniors may be particularly vulnerable to these scams because of one virtue that they possess in abundance – trust. Seniors grew up in an era when transactions were face-to-face, and money was exchanged with someone you knew or could easily contact.
Today, technological advances allow criminals to anonymously ply their trade with telephones and computers — claiming to represent some group or agency and demanding an instant response that doesn’t allow for second-guessing or the needed advice of family or friends. One click of a button and a savings account can be emptied.
Identity theft occurs when someone obtains and then illegally uses your personal information, such as your name, date of birth, credit card number, or mother’s maiden name. The imposter can then gain access to your bank account, open new credit card accounts and apply for loans in your name, and so on. Transactions will be made in your name, but the proceeds — cash, travel expenses, meals, luxury items — will go to the thief at some unknown address. You will not be aware the theft has happened, often for some time, until you start to receive bills and inquiries from credit agencies.
Identity thieves are often quite sophisticated and use advanced technological means such as computers and telephone links, but they also won’t hesitate to go through your trash to get that vital information. They may also appear at your door, impersonating police or social service agency workers (even in uniform), ask questions in order to get information that they claim will be used for your benefit. Always demand identification, and don’t be afraid to call the department or agency to make sure the person is legitimate.
There are measures that you can take to protect yourself from identity theft. First, don’t give out any personal information over the telephone, unless you initiated the call and know who you are talking to. Second, keep track of your financial records. A missed monthly credit card account report, an abrupt denial of credit at a local store or payment inquiries from strange vendors can be important tip-offs that someone is using your information illegally for their benefit. Also, don’t keep written notes of vital information such as a PIN, Social Security number, or date of birth in your wallet or handbag. And destroy any of the materials that you receive in the mail with a pre-approved credit card – these can be sent back in with your name and a different billing address from someone who recovers them from the trash.
You should keep information about your banking and credit card accounts in a safe place. If you do find out that you have become the victim of an identity theft, that information will be important. Notify your local police right away. You can also call information hotlines operated by the Attorney General (1-617-727-8400), the United States Postal Service (1-202-268-2284) and the Federal Trade Commission (1-877-IDTHEFT). The Berkshire County Consumer Advocates (413-443-9128) can also provide helpful advice and information.