Persecuted by Identity Theft

When a person becomes victim of identity theft, they are often persecuted throughout the battle to restore their lives. Identity theft predators are lurking the World Wide Web daily searching for information to steal and these predators will go as far as setting up equipment in their home to hear phone conversations, as well as standing over a person while they type in their PIN name at ATM machines or stores.

Identity thieves do not care that the cost of the crime is placed on the victims head. Identity thieves think of them self when stealing and will go to all lengths to steal information. Cordless phones and cell phones are vulnerable, since with the right scanner installed a person can listen into phone calls in a local area. When a person goes to the ATM or stores to make a purchase thieves will stand over your shoulder watching you as you provide you PIN number to a machine.

Hackers and crackers frequent the World Wide Web, studying the Internet while they following tracks left behind when a person searches web pages. Thieves will study new technology to find leaks in the system to locate information in which they can use to open new accounts, use up credit cards, apply for credit cards, commit additional crimes, lease apartments, and apply for credit and so forth.

Victims' of identity theft have discovered that they were being sued for failure to uphold a lease agreement, or for debts that they did not authorize. Victims' have been accused of crimes they did not commit, and have found them self in bankruptcy when they have never been to court. Victims' have been issued bank drafts when they had sufficient funds in their banking account.

Thieves will drain accounts, file bankruptcy, buy new cars, mortgage a home, or lease an apartment in the victim's name, and when the thief feels nervous, the thief will move on without caring about the damage he or she does to the victim. When delinquencies or judges incur from the thief's actions, thus the victim is the target for persecution.

If you suspect that your identity is stolen it is important to report the crime to the local authorities immediately, or in the area where you suspect your identity was stolen. You will also need to report the crime to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and request reports of your credit files. You will also need to alert the credit bureaus that your identity has been stolen. Few states will permit a FREEZE on your accounts, while other states only permit Fraud Alerts. Thus, the states that offer FREEZE should be considered, since if you can get a freeze on your accounts it will prevent the thief from taking further advantage of you. A Fraud Alert merely causes the victim further persecution, since creditors and employers can view the files and will often assume that the alert is risky on the behalf of the victim, thus will often reject the applicant. The FREEZE on your account enables you to choose when to temporary remove a PIN number to permit viewing.

Next, you will need to close all accounts, including bank accounts, credit card accounts and other accounts. If you have pending mortgages and car loans, notify the company and let them know that your identity was stolen. You should also notify your utility providers and phone providers to alert them that your identity was stolen.

After opening new accounts, make sure that you change the PIN and Passwords randomly to prevent the thief from gaining access to your accounts. If the thief has your social security number and driver license number, notify the Secretary of State and Social Security Administration to alert them, and then consider storing your money at home temporarily, since if the thief has this information he can gain access to your new accounts.

Finally, if you become a victim of identity theft continue to monitor all aspects of your life cautiously, and remember you are the victim, thus those persecuting you are the ignorant that have not endured such crime as of yet.

Tony Robinson is an International Author, Webmaster and Security Guru. Check out his Identity Theft Protection Tips at http://www.officialidentitytheft.com/

Identity Theft Victims Persecuted

When a person becomes victim of identity theft the law, the thief, creditors and others often persecute them throughout the battle to restore their identity. Thus, in this article I am providing you legal advice, inform you of your rights and help you to battle the fight of identity theft and get results. Abroad the World Wide Web is beyond measure of narratives and information. Each year millions of people are affected by identity theft.

If you think that you are not a victim of identity theft, you may want to rethink when I am done writing this article. Each time a person loses his/her identity the prices of gas, food, household goods, materials, and so forth increase. The government claims to spend billions of dollars fighting the crime, thus each year when you pay taxes a few of those dollars giving to the government is paid out to fight identity theft.

Now what do you think? Listen on. Each year MILLIONS of people fall into the hands of identity theft, and none of us can determine if we are the next victim. Each year, we hear reports of bankers giving out personal information to unauthorized individuals and/or companies that potentially put us at risk.

Throughout the world companies, financial services, government, law technology, and many others are fighting identity theft, yet each step they take the predators are one-step ahead.

Criminals come in all forms, including doctors, lawyers, politicians, law, spouses, mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, sons, daughters, clerks, postmasters, and the list continues. When you send in your monthly bills there is no guarantee that one of the employees as developed an idea to steal your identity. When you give out your information abroad the World Wide Web, there are no guarantees that your identity will not fall into the hands of an identity theft. When you visit stores, gas stations there is no guarantee the clerk, or someone looking over your shoulders will you key in your PIN number will steal your information.

Today, no one is your best friend; rather anyone of us is potentially capable of stealing identities. Sounds dramatic, but the reality exists when you hear reports all over the world that tell you stories about identity theft. During the September 11, ordeal the terrorists stole identities first and used the information to carry out the terrorist act.

In the UK, reports of identity theft occur each day, with some of the perpetrators being postmasters according to few. The postmasters steal information and sell it to immigrants who wish to remain in the country.

Few identity thieves have committed felony crimes and need new identities to cover their tracks. Other identity theft are teenagers peek to levels of curiosity that they learn how to crack open computers owned by others and steal information. The teenagers may not use the information, while others may. Some of the teenagers carry out the crime out of pure curiosity with no harmful intentions, however it is still a crime committed innocently by the curious minds.

The ultimate thief will steal identities to gain. Many thieves use personal information to open accounts, apply for credit cards, mortgages, and other lines of credits. The thieves will use the personal information to live a productive lifestyle while the victim fights effortlessly to regain back his/her name. The thief will think nothing about what the victim goes through and may even laugh when news reports tell stories about how hard people are struggling to restore their lives. Thus, these are the worst types of criminals, since not only are they capable of committing identity theft, they are capable of committing murder.

Identity thieves have also killed to use someone else's information, therefore, keep in mind that anyone can be your worst nightmare. Finally, protect your self with all measures to prevent identity theft. The fight should include suspicious thinking when someone asks you for your confidential information and never giving your information out over the net.

Tony Robinson is an International Author, Webmaster and Security Guru. Check out his Identity Theft Protection Tips at http://www.officialidentitytheft.com/

How To Protect Yourself From Identity Theft and PC Hackers

Identity theft is rampant these days, and the best way to avoid being a victim is to protect your self in any and all ways possible. You may be aware of some information here, but not all, so please read on, print this article, then implement everything and check mark off when completed. You'll feel safer and more in control. There are two lists here for you, online and offline protection.

Offline protection

Shred with a criss-cross shredder, everything that has your date of birth, social security number, signature, bank acct #, credit card #, tax ID#, balance transfer checks (unless of course you are planning on using them), credit card applications, etc. I don't go crazy here with mail that just has my name and address on it because that's public info, easy to get and it would be a part time job to do it! Be careful with some credit card companies who have sales/loan/special interest acct information on pages behind your normal account info pages. Often these pages have you full account number on them. Be sure to shred that part of it.

All it takes to run your credit report is your name, address, social security number and date of birth. Do not give your date of birth to anyone you don't have to. Never give your mother's maiden name to anyone except your back and credit card company. If they insist on one, and it's not a large institution, use a fake one; just pick something you'll remember.

Do not carry your social security card with you. Preferably, keep it in a safe at home or safe place no one would look. Don't give the number to just anyone. Don't carry all your credit cards in your wallet at the same time. Keep only the necessary ones in it. Unless you called the company directly yourself, do not give people over the phone, who claim to be from a certain company, any info without getting some proof first.

Online Protection

Use Mozilla Firefox as your Internet browser 98% of the time rather than Internet Explorer. It's safer. Occasionally, some websites are programmed specifically just for IE, so you don't have much choice.

Install anti-virus, anti-spyware, anti-keylogger software, a firewall and Spoof Stick on your pc. Many ISP's will give you the first 2 listed free. You should use at least 2 anti-spy ware programs. I use 3 and rotate my scans. I also use 2 anti-virus programs, one paid for anti-keylogger and one that's included in my anti-spyware. You can get Spoof Stick free, by downloading it from the Internet, but unless you remember to use it, it's worthless.

Here's what Spoof Stick will do; when you go online and click, type or paste a URL (web site address) in your browser window, Spoof Stick will show you what web site you are really on, on the top right of the window. There are hackers that make sites that look like the real thing, to try to get your information or infect you with viruses and Trojan horses. They may send you an email with a link in it saying they need to verify information regarding an account you have. This is called spoofing or phishing. You may actually have an account where they say you do, but it's probably not a real email from the company. Don't click on the links in it. If you think it's real, type in the company URL you would normally use into your browser. Verify with spoof stick you are on their site, in case they got hacked, and if everything looks ok, log in and see if they really need something from you. Get in the habit of always looking at Spoof Stick to verify the web site you are really on.

What's a key logger you ask? Well, they hack your computer, and can track your keyboard strokes, trying to get passwords to your accounts, so they can steal your money and or your identity. Always use the secure random keystroke (SRK) option if there is one. This is a separate keypad you use in a separate window to click on the letters and numbers of your passwords. Key-loggers cannot track it.

Passwords

Don't use the same passwords for everything! Depending on how many online accts or private membership sites you have, you may use duplicates for a few, if there's nothing really sensitive about the information in them. Always use separate ones for banks, credit cards or online acct like Paypal, e-gold etc. Use combinations of letter and numbers, not words that are easily figured out. Don't use your kids or pets name, your anniversary, birthday or anything other people know. Do not keep the actual passwords written out or typed on your pc. If you have too many to remember them all, as I do, write down a coded version of it and a coded version of the acct name and don't title the page!

I know it's difficult and time consuming to do all these things, but well worth it to avoid having your pc hacked and your identity stolen. If you do, read my article on what to do and what not to do.

Sandra Wellman is the owner of www.freefinanceinfo.org, where you'll find over 50 articles & books on credit repair, how to get out of debt, identity theft protection, refinancing, reverse mortgages, & student and auto loans

Reviews of Identity Theft

Abroad the Internet is countless of stories directly from victims harmed from identity theft. Millions of other stories are never told. After hearing, one review I learnt that what I have said all along is proving truer than ever and that is the law works for the perpetrators of crimes and work against the victims. One review peeked my interest when the person stated "Laws are not only there to give" the thieves "more power" while weakening the victim, the law is also protecting the thieves more so than they will protect the victims. Thus, during Criminal Law Studies and from experience, including frequent visits to the courtrooms, I notice that the criminals had more rights and protection than most victims did.

One review was disturbing, since the persons Mortgage lender gave out personal information unauthorized, thus the person suffered anguish and had no idea what steps to take to protect them self. Most times the law will work overtime if a person has a 'high-profile' to find the perpetrator, however if a person does not have upper class respect in society the law often slacks in their efforts to apprehend the predator. This is silly on their part, since the thief has the ability to steal their identity possibly, thus they are only slacking, making room for the criminal to gain control of another identity. Thus, who is the blame for identity theft...I promise you it is not the victims,' in most instances, rather it is the financial processing machines and technical makers, the law, technology enhancement providers, but mostly the blame is on the thief him self.

I am not here to promote anyone's business; however, I found a source throughout my history that proved valuable overtime. Thus, the service costs $25 per month, or at least it did and this service will connect you with lawyers in your area that can help you out if you fall victim of identity theft. Pre-Paid Legal Aid offers services and recently has opened up new services to help people fight identity theft. If you are a victim, it might be worth looking into. From first hand experience the service works fast and sufficient, unfortunately, the areas I live in, most lawyers are not worth mentioning. Countless of people in this area have complained regarding various lawyers, thus never think that a lawyer will work for you to get your identity cleared. Always assume... (This is what creditors and millions of others do worldwide) give the world a dose of their own medicine that the lawyer is not your best friend.

When a person becomes victim of identity theft, the whole world will seem like your enemy. You may feel that you can trust no one; however, someone if you have the needle is buried in the haystack that has a shred of humane left in this system. Therefore, you should never stop fighting for your life back if someone has stolen your identity.

It is important to put on the 'suit of armor' and protect your self with all your might. Putting on the suit of armor means, you are willing to walk the extra mile to get back what is rightfully yours. If the authorities or other qualified sources to fight identity theft do not listen, use your assertive tools to make them listen to what you have to say. NEVER become violent or aggressive when fighting for your identity, since people reject this reaction.

If no one listens, write letters to your state reps, governor, President, and other political leaders letting them know what you have done, what you are going through and what results you are getting.

I reported my local police department and then talked to the chief of police. He told me, "always start at the bottom in the department and work to the top before contacting state reps.: I told him, "I start at the top and then work down to you." I got results immediately.

Therefore, forget what people tell you when they are working for a company where you are filing a complaint, if that person is telling you there is nothing they can do to help, or we will get back to you. Do NOT accept that response; rather tell them politely and assertively that you want to speak with someone over their heads.

Tony Robinson is an International Author, Webmaster and Security Guru. Check out his Identity Theft Protection Tips at http://www.officialidentitytheft.com/

The Criminal Mind and Identity Theft

After studying human behaviors, crimes, criminals, emotions, thoughts, and various other subjects and surviving many crimes, I feel it is important to understand the criminal mind to a degree when fighting identity theft. This article is geared toward victims of identity theft, or potential victims, however law enforcement may learn a thing or two by reading this information them self.

Thieves do not care what they have to do and how dirty the job is to get it done when desire, greed, and other inhumane emotions flare. Thieves will go through trashcans, bribes employees, break in homes, practice hacking skills, kill, et cetera to get what they want. Thieves utilize power and control, scheme, and contemplate cautiously when carry out crimes. The majority of thieves does not do something spontaneously or act on emotions when committing crimes. Scandalous offenders are often ahead of the game, by planning ahead of the crime and learning strategies as they plan.

The criminal mind is a mysterious, yet familiar habitat. Criminals study forensics, law, technology and other developments and studies carefully to learn how the source acts, respond to crime, plan to prevent, and so forth.

Let me give you an example of a criminal mind by illustrating a case study. One criminal minded soul studied for years how the forensics-investigated crimes, including studying to great links how finger prints and other information was produced during the cases. Thus, the criminal minded individual studied, but relented when he felt there was no way to commit the crimes he had in mind. Therefore, an instance the criminal delayed, however, it does not happen often. Therefore, the criminal minded person will continue his studying by analyzing all the information he gathered throughout his life, until one day he sees a modus operandi that will help him commit the perfect crime. The case study was conducted by myself, however, petty crimes were committed throughout this persons life, and as I helped this person to think logically and avoid criminal activities, I know in time he will do exactly what I encouraged and fought hard to prevent him from doing...that is murder. The person illustrated has Psychopathic Tendencies, Oppositional Defiant, Schizophrenia, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, Intermittent Explosive Disorders, and other disorders that pose a serious threat to our society.

This one criminal oriented mind has also stolen, yet was never prosecuted for the crime. The criminal minds are cunning, swift, conniving, venturous, and the list continues. Often criminals are smarter than the average, simply because they have the ability to listen and hear ongoing, yet only listening and hearing the things that help them productively carry out the crimes.

Identity theft is one of the leading crimes in the world that has broken the trust of nearly every one in existence. Nowadays, mothers, fathers, sons, brothers, sisters, daughters, nieces, nephews and other family members find it hard to trust even the people they love.

The world is heading in a disastrous direction, simply because the world has variants of directions to follow with on focus in mind. Who can make more money than the next guy can? This is what our system promotes and pushes, thus why should we expect anything less than identity thieves, murder, and other crimes from occurring.

To protect your self against identity theft you should read all information and adhere to the warnings provided worldwide. While the UK is placing chips in their credit/debit cards believing that they have the solution for fighting identity theft, thieves are conjuring modus operandi to get past the chips are succeeding every day.

Tips for preventing identity theft include:

Remember that anyone, including you can be the next victim. Never set your self up for a hard fall, such as thinking "It only happens to the misfortune." Alternatively, thinking, "It can never happen to me." This is opening your world up to vulnerability where criminals frequent daily. In other words, criminals often search for vulnerable areas to attack.

Tony Robinson is an International Author, Webmaster and Security Guru. Check out his Identity Theft Protection Tips at http://www.officialidentitytheft.com/

The Federal Trade Commission Identity Theft Clearinghouse and its Steps to Prevent THEFT

The Federal Trade Commission Identity Theft Clearinghouse is the second step when you become a victim of identity theft to report the crime. When you report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission Identity Theft Clearinghouse, the services will contact various contacts, including the law, investigators, particular "consumer reporting companies," lawyers and so forth in an effort to help you through the crime.

Once you report to the right authorities that you have become victim of identity theft, police department worldwide will have this knowledge. Next, you will need to report the theft to TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax and request and dispute any unauthorized debts, including bankruptcies.

It depends on the state in which you live, but few states offer the option of placing a FREEZE on your credit reports, which supposedly prohibits access to anyone but you and the bureaus. You will be provided a PIN number, which you can remove temporary to allow viewing of your reports in the event you are applying for a job or credit.

Victims of identity theft should be aware that any debts incurred on their reports come from creditors, or public records. When a person is sued, files bankruptcy, files for divorce, or judgments and tax liens are filed against, thus the information is public.

One of the cruelest laws is that the media can report crimes committed by a person, including placing the persons address in the papers. This is a surefire failure in the system that opens up the advantage for perpetrators of identity theft, and even predators to take control of a person's life. Thus, placing your social security number, home address, phone number and other information on credit reports where anyone can gain access is another failure in the system that opens the door for identity theft.

Thus, when a person is victimized by identity theft and the perpetrator commits an act that enforces tax liens, bankruptcies and delinquencies the information goes on the credit report. It is up to the victim to dispute the charges, however, even if the victim succeeds the information may stay on the credit reports for seven, ten, or fifteen years. Many people believe that debts stay on credit reports up to three years, however, Experian clearly states on its letters that debts linger on reports for 'seven years," while 'bankruptcies" remain on the reports for 'ten years,' and "tax liens" stay on the reports for fifteen 'years.'

When you dispute a charge on your credit report and after the investigation it is found you are telling the truth, thus the credit bureaus will place deleted behind the charge. To dispute any charges you must contact the credit bureaus dispute service by calling or going online and visit the credit bureaus sites. Keep all letters where a dispute was filed on records. If the companies accusing you of the debt, after a dispute is made cannot show proof that you incurred the debt, thus the credit bureaus will include "dismiss" or "deleted" behind the charge.

Thus, under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) laws you have the right to sue anyone causing damage to you, by giving out, selling, or leasing your information, you may sue him or her in federal or state courts. Therefore, learn your rights, since companies will sell, rent, lease, or give out your information to others in some instances.

It is against the law for any company willfully given out information to others without the consent of the individual. Thus, under law the person can be sued, fined and tossed in jail, or both. For example, if a company sells, leases, rents, or gives your information out to someone else and you become victim of identity theft by reason of this action, you have the legal right to file charges and sue the company.

Finally, the steps to reporting identity theft include: Filing a report with the police, Federal Trade Commission Identity Theft Clearinghouse and notifying the credit bureaus. You will also need to contact the Department of Motor Vehicles, as well as the Social Security Administration. For more information on identity theft, read and learn.

Tony Robinson is an International Author, Webmaster and Security Guru. Check out his Identity Theft Protection Tips at http://www.officialidentitytheft.com/

UK Identity Theft

The UK like the United States of America is facing ongoing problems regarding identity theft. New technology enhancement has issued developments, such as PINS and Codes to use credit cards, however, studies are showing that the as technology advances so does criminals. Few credit cards now have chips integrated into the cards to prevent identity theft, however, thieves have developed new strategies that match the developments and it is making it easier for the thieves to steal identities.

In the UK identity theft is an immigration crime-related action verses the purposes that thieves will steal identities in America. The thieves often steal identities because they are illegal residents in the UK and in order to remain in the country a new identity is required. After interviewing a gentleman in England, he claimed that postmasters stole identities sometimes, since the postmaster could make profit by selling the cards to immigrants. With this information in hand, you can see identity theft has many reasons and purposes, thus making it difficult for authorities to understand the crimes.

In the year of 2004, over eleven million victims lost their identities to theft, thus this figure does not include the number of victims in the UK and other countries. In comparison to the early 90's the number of identity theft has increased enormously, and the reason that the numbers escalate is that policyholders are unwilling to make the necessary changes to protect identity as reason of money and credit. Thus, the policyholders are not the only sources responsible for the ongoing crime of identity theft. While policyholders are more concern about making profit, they do consider risks to a large degree since victims of identity theft reach the policyholders and extend throughout the world.

Unfortunately, a victim of any crime often is treated far worse than criminals are treated, thus criminals often have more rights than the victims. The problem is due to the Criminal Justice System who is in constant study of resolving problems, and under the control of various sources, thus restricting their ability to change laws at a giving time.

In order for the crimes to fall in place, as they should, rather in order for the law to work harder than they do, citizens of the world must make a stand and fight by protesting the laws. Each person that makes a stand adds to the changes in our system. While studying the Criminal Justice System I found that these sources are one of the most flawed areas of help in our system. If we want to stop identity theft, thus we as the people need to rise and protest to State Representatives, Congress, Governors, and other leaders in the world. Once you start the protesting you should never cease, since the only way we can have better laws is if we all work together to make the laws work.

The truth is the government allows particular developments and dismisses to the public developments that will protect them from identity theft. When a person becomes a victim of identity theft, it is a long-lasting victimization, since the law rarely cares about the individual that lost his/her identity, rather they are more concerned about the large companies losing money because of the crime. The law claims to be working hard to resolve the problems, but if you ever have been a victim of identity theft you know this is an outright lie.

In the UK, it is said that the people do not have a right to obtain copies of their credit reports and in the US; people are allowed one free copy per year of their reports unless they apply for credit and are denied. Thus, this means that anyone offering financial agreements or extending credit have the right to our reports more so than we do. Is this fair? No. simply put the laws are backwards and will continue to be backwards until stands are made that forces them to act according to their pay. We as the taxpayers are victims of policyholders, law, government and so forth. Thus, identity thefts are a minor problem compared to the bigger problems we have in the world.

Tony Robinson is an International Author, Webmaster and Security Guru. Check out his Identity Theft Protection Tips at http://www.officialidentitytheft.com/

Valuable Information for Identity Theft Victims

Identity theft is one of the biggest problems we are facing in society. Bankers, credit card lenders, law, and other sources are working to find a solution to the problems. At what time a person falls into the hands of an identity thief, they will struggle for months and even years to restore their identity.

As a victim of identity theft, I learned to never lose control and keep the fight going, even if activity ceases. Every day I struggle to survive rejections and pray that the perpetrators do not commit a crime that lands me in the courtrooms or in jail. Thus, I took up Criminal Justice working to obtain my Bachelors degree for the purpose to have ammunition to continue my battle. It is costing me over $20 Grand and this does not include the mental anguish and price I have paid in the past as the victim of identity theft.

One of the best sources online according to a few identity theft victims came to my attention, thus I am ready to share any information to help you prevent identity theft, or else recover from the crime. Rely Delta is one of the many sources that help fight identity theft. The company teams up with others working together to fight identity theft, and according to victims of identity theft, this particular company helped them in less than a week.

One week...I can only dream of what these people are saying, since it has been seven long years fighting for my own identity when I spent a lifetime to find my identity. If this service offers help this quickly, I encourage everyone victimized by identity theft to request help from this source, since the law and other authorities have done nothing in line of helping me restore my life, since 2000.

Another great source supposedly is Kroll who teamed up with Pre-Paid Legal Services, which I have used in the past, to work against identity theft. Kroll is a risk management service that helped track down some of the terrorists of September 11 according to few. The service monitors your credit reports ongoing and opens the doors so that you have access to your own credit reports. CV2Now is another source that helps to fight identity theft, while monitoring credit reports; however, I visited the site first hand and did not see security, thus proceed with caution if you want to challenge this site for help. Payment processors are one of the biggest problems that lead to identity theft. Payment processors are machines that process payments abroad the World Wide Net and phone lines. The source has the biggest leakage over any other source that makes identity theft easier than ever.

Again, as a victim of identity theft, there is no such thing as I heard enough. As a victim of identity theft, until now I have not heard any positive news. I read a bulletin board recently, that informed me about the Rely Delta, which I have not tried yet, but at least the story told was positive. I was robbed of my identity twice, once in 2000 and once in 2001. The first time the perpetrator was offline and stole my personal identification, meaning all my personal identification, my vehicle, and myself. Fortunately, I escaped the hands of the perpetrator, all to learn that the thieves had taken full advantage of my truck and identity before I awaken from the drugs administered to me, which knocked me unconscious so that they could commit the crime. The second crime was committed online when I first joined the Internet. As na?ve as I was regarding the Internet, it did not take me long to learn all I could about computers, identity theft, Internet, and other related subjects.

If Paypal an online bank had not contacted me, it would have taking a couple days longer for me to learn that I was a victim, since my bank regardless that nearly $2000 was drained from my account in less than a day. The first event the perpetrators got fifteen years, while the second perpetrator has not been caught to date. Protect your self now!

Tony Robinson is an International Author, Webmaster and Security Guru. Check out his Identity Theft Protection Tips at http://www.officialidentitytheft.com/

Victimized by Identity Theft

When a person is victimized by identity theft the person becomes a lifetime victim, simply put because regardless of how many times the law tells you they are working to resolve the problem, they are lying. As a victim of identity theft when I reported the second offense against me, the police ask few questions and gave me a report number with no other action behind it. I contacted the Federal Trade Commissions, reported the crime, and have heard nothing and to date (since 2000) the perpetrator is still active.

Once I contacted the credit bureaus they did nothing to remove the charges against me, rather they merely placed a resolved or other related comment behind the debt. Other people have suffered far more severe attacks on their life, including summoned to court for debts they never could have made. The people lived in one area of the world, while the perpetrator was acting in another area. It is pathetic that we as the victims must suffer the loss of our lives while few are taking the stand to stop the crimes.

In most instances of identity, theft if a company is not involved and reports the crime a single individual's will fall into the large group of people in society without receiving help from anyone. Often victims' of identity theft are denied credit and find it difficult to survive once the credit reports are affected. Some states permit freezing of the credit reports, which should be permitted in all states, since it denies anyone the right to review the credit reports, except the person that has the right ownership. Most states allow Fraud Alerts up to three months and sometimes permanently, however this only makes the victim look bad since nothing is removed from the reports.

Thus, identity theft is ongoing and it is up to us to protect our self from theft. It is difficult since technology advancements have proven to make it easier for thieves to gain access to nearly anyone's identity. The government has high-tech developments that protect their databases; however, identity thefts have proven that even this level of technology will not stop them.

New credit cards are developed that have chips in them that is supposedly sophisticated enough to prevent or slow theft, however thieves are far more advanced in most instances and accepts the challenge going above and beyond the chips. The World Wide Web is the single more convenient area where identity thieves frequent and often they use programs designed that are suppose to ward off hackers, crackers, spies and other harmful critters, however, the development has only made it convenient for the thieves to get in the doors to thousands of computers. Again, in 2004, more than eleven million people alone became victims of identity theft, and the majority of crimes committed were done abroad the Internet.

Some cases of identity theft report turned out to be neighbors, friends, and even family members. One case reported came from England when a couple moved to the states and when they left they learned that their identity was robbed of them, which led them to pain and suffering for years. The couple unfortunately received little if any help and were sent summons to appear in court for debts they did not initiate. Creditors and financial lenders often think of identity theft as an escape goat for people to get out of debt, and the victim is left standing even if there is concrete evidence showing that the person did not authorize the debts.

This leaves us all in a shamble; since we have to do everything, we can to avoid identity theft. If it was up to me, I'd say get rid of the credit cards and other materials that have potential links to thieves, however nowadays if you do not have a credit card you are basically considered an outcast. We live in a stereotyped, uncultured world where too many judges and assumers control the environment, thus think like a criminal and protect your self from everyone, including creditors, cops, lawyers, government officials and so forth to win the horrific increasing rates of identity theft victims.

Tony Robinson is an International Author, Webmaster and Security Guru. Check out his Identity Theft Protection Tips at http://www.officialidentitytheft.com/

When to Fight Identity Theft

The time to fight Identity theft is now. If you are not a victim of identity theft, do not take any chances, since it is next to impossible if not impossible to restore your life once someone takes hold of your identity.

Identity thieves will steal your identity nearly anywhere in the world, but many of the utilize the World Wide Web to take advantage of millions of people. Since, technology has developed it has open the doors to predators of all walks and these hungry souls are taking full advantage of the developments.

Thieves are tricky. In the world, we have all types of predators including serial killers, thieves, rapists, extortionists, and so forth. Serial killers are one of the hardest predators to catch, and what follows the steps of a skilled killer is an identity thief. Comparing the two, you would be luckier to have a serial killer on your trial verses having lost your identity. Serial killers will annihilate you instantaneously after interrupting your life quietly. Likewise, a thief will monitor the moves of random candidates ready for the taking and when they gain access to your identity, you will battle for the rest of your life to restore your life in general.

When you become a victim of identity theft you are a victim forever, however when you become a victim of other crimes and survive you are a survivor once you come over the trauma in the path. Thus, identity thieves once hold of your information can open accounts in your name, withdrawal money from your accounts, violate your credit reports, commit crimes and use your identity to evade the authorities, or else commit crimes and leave you holding the bag. Identity thieves that hold your information can contact the government and file for anything they like in your name and the government will have no clue, since they are assuming you are the one requesting the documents.

Thus, if you suspect your identity is stolen take the first step and contact the authorities. Next, you will need to contact the government, and social security administration as well as the license bureau. You will also need to contact your bank, credit card providers, debit card providers, utility providers, property owner, mortgage and anyone that is connected to you and your information. You will also need to get copies of your credit reports and dispute any activities immediately on the reports that are not belonging to you. Be sure to request that TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax put a FREEZE on your accounts. If the companies put up a Fraud Alert the alert will leave you open, thus a FREEZE will go further with creditors when you apply for credit in the future. I stress FREEZE, since this will halt anyone from adding any debts to your account. If a fraud alert is, pending then anyone can add debts to your account, which takes three to seven and even ten years to remove, even if you did not create the debts.

After you have took all the necessary steps you will need to continue monitor any new accounts and continue monitoring your credit reports randomly. Anytime new information becomes available that insinuates that someone has violated your identity make sure you provide the updates to the authorities.

So, do you still want to ask when to fight identity theft? If you are still asking this question then you obviously missed the point. In the year of 2002 alone, more than one-half million individuals lost their identity and the statistics are increasing each year.

Identity theft is a major crime where the criminal rarely meets the authorities. The World Wide Web opens the door for thieves to come and go as they please without little exposure. Thus, learning the steps to prevent identity theft is critical, especially if you are connected to the Internet, or frequent the World Wide Web often. For more information on identity theft, visit the online connections where you can find a swamp load of information that will help you to protect your identity. Otherwise, visit your local library to learn how you can prevent identity theft, even if you never use a computer.

Tony Robinson is an International Author, Webmaster and Security Guru. Check out his Identity Theft Protection Tips at http://www.officialidentitytheft.com/

Protect Yourself From Identity Theft.

There are so many ways that your identity can be stolen. It's such a shame that people take something as valuable as the internet and steal from you, but it happens. When it does, they can go on a spending spree that can ruin you financially. It's a dangerous game for them, and for you it's dangerous... but no game. It happens a lot but in this article we'll show you some strategies so that it doesn't happen to you.

Here are proactive strategies to keep it from happening. Here are some ways to help you fight identity theft and avoid having someone else ruin your good credit rating and keep you from getting the loan or mortgage you want to get.

Be careful how much information you give out over the Internet.

Never put your credit card number into an e-mail.

If you do make purchases online only use sites that offer a high level of encryption and only use one credit card for all of your Internet purchases and make sure that credit card has a low limit. If you do that, no one will be able to ruin your credit rating even if they max out your credit card because the limit is so low!

You should also be shredding all of your outgoing mail. A lot of your information is already on your garbage and all the thieves have to do is pick through your garbage and learn about you.

Make sure that your mailbox is safe. You may have to rent a mailbox if you live in an area where it is not secure and private.

Get a credit check done regularly to see if someone is ruining your credit rating. A credit report will tell you how many credit inquiries have been made and if you see any on there that you did not approve of, you should contact the credit bureau immediately.

Why this talk about identity theft on a site about loans? Because if someone steals your identity they can get loans based on your credit rating and they will disappear with the goods while you get stuck with a bad credit report.

Tim Renolds is the owner of Homeowner Loans providing Uk homeowners with a free loan quote service. Visit us today for a free no obligation quote

What Can I Do About Identity Theft And Fraud?

What Can I Do About Identity Theft And Fraud?

To victims of identity theft and fraud, the task of correcting incorrect information about their financial or personal status, and trying to restore their good names and reputations, may seem as daunting as trying to solve a puzzle in which some of the pieces are missing and other pieces no longer fit as they once did. Unfortunately, the damage that criminals do in stealing another person's identity and using it to commit fraud often takes far longer to undo than it took the criminal to commit the crimes.

What Should I Do To Avoid Becoming A Victim Of Identity Theft?

To reduce or minimize the risk of becoming a victim of identity theft or fraud, there are some basic steps you can take. For starters, just remember the word "SCAM":

S Be stingy about giving out your personal information to others unless you have a reason to trust them, regardless of where you are:

At Home.

Start by adopting a "need to know" approach to your personal data. Your credit card company may need to know your mother's maiden name, so that it can verify your identity when you call to inquire about your account. A person who calls you and says he's from your bank, however, doesn't need to know that information if it's already on file with your bank; the only purpose of such a call is to acquire that information for that person's personal benefit. Also, the more information that you have printed on your personal bank checks -- such as your Social Security number or home telephone number -- the more personal data you are routinely handing out to people who may not need that information. If someone you don't know calls you on the telephone and offers you the chance to receive a "major" credit card, a prize, or other valuable item, but asks you for personal data -- such as your Social Security number, credit card number or expiration date, or mother's maiden name -- ask them to send you a written application form. If they won't do it, tell them you're not interested and hang up. If they will, review the application carefully when you receive it and make sure it's going to a company or financial institution that's well-known and reputable. The Better Business Bureau can give you information about businesses that have been the subject of complaints.

On Travel.

If you're traveling, have your mail held at your local post office, or ask someone you know well and trust ? another family member, a friend, or a neighbor ? to collect and hold your mail while you're away.

If you have to telephone someone while you're traveling, and need to pass on personal financial information to the person you're calling, don't do it at an open telephone booth where passersby can listen in on what you're saying; use a telephone booth where you can close the door, or wait until you're at a less public location to call.

C Check your financial information regularly, and look for what should be there and what shouldn't: What Should Be There.

If you have bank or credit card accounts, you should be receiving monthly statements that list transactions for the most recent month or reporting period.

If you're not receiving monthly statements for the accounts you know you have, call the financial institution or credit card company immediately and ask about it.

If you're told that your statements are being mailed to another address that you haven't authorized, tell the financial institution or credit card representative immediately that you did not authorize the change of address and that someone may be improperly using your accounts. In that situation, you should also ask for copies of all statements and debit or charge transactions that have occurred since the last statement you received. Obtaining those copies will help you to work with the financial institution or credit card company in determining whether some or all of those debit or charge transactions were fraudulent.

What Shouldn't Be There.

If someone has gotten your financial data and made unauthorized debits or charges against your financial accounts, checking your monthly statements carefully may be the quickest way for you to find out. Too many of us give those statements, or the enclosed checks or credit transactions, only a quick glance, and don't review them closely to make sure there are no unauthorized withdrawals or charges.

If someone has managed to get access to your mail or other personal data, and opened any credit cards in your name or taken any funds from your bank account, contact your financial institution or credit card company immediately to report those transactions and to request further action.

A Ask periodically for a copy of your credit report.

Your credit report should list all bank and financial accounts under your name, and will provide other indications of whether someone has wrongfully opened or used any accounts in your name.

M Maintain careful records of your banking and financial accounts.

Even though financial institutions are required to maintain copies of your checks, debit transactions, and similar transactions for five years, you should retain your monthly statements and checks for at least one year, if not more. If you need to dispute a particular check or transaction ? especially if they purport to bear your signatures ? your original records will be more immediately accessible and useful to the institutions that you have contacted.

Even if you take all of these steps, however, it's still possible that you can become a victim of identity theft. Records containing your personal data -- credit-card receipts or car-rental agreements, for example -- may be found by or shared with someone who decides to use your data for fraudulent purposes. http://www.usdoj.gov/

Jake Paterson - visit http://www.backgroundcheckunlimited.com to find more about public records and vital records

Some Tips For Preventing Identity Theft

These days it is becoming increasingly common to see people suffering from identity theft. It has become a huge business for thieves and con artists all over the world.

If it has never happened to you, trust me you don't want it to. These people who specialize in stealing identities can run up charges on your credit cards, empty your bank accounts, sell off investment portfolios and have the funds transferred to offshore accounts, and ruin your credit almost overnight.

So, how do you protect yourself from this new crime threat? I have gathered a few tips for you that will give you a good start to guarding against identity theft.

One of the easiest things that one can do to help prevent identity theft from people going through your garbage is to buy a cross-cut type shredder. Shred all your important papers and especially pre-approved credit applications received in your name and other financial information that provides access to your private information. Don't forget to shred your credit card receipts as well. These shredders can be bought now for under $50.

Be careful at ATM's and using Phone Cards. "Shoulder Surfers" can get your "Pin Number" and get access to your accounts. Another thing is to be careful when pulling up to an ATM and watch out for people in the area. I also suggest not going to ATM's late at night and especially if they are in remote areas just from a safety standpoint.

Get all of your checks delivered to your bank - not to your home address.

Do not put checks to pay bills in the mail from your home mailbox. Drop them off at a U.S. Mailbox or the U.S. Post Office. Mail theft is common. It's easy to change the name of the recipient on the check with an acid wash. Another thing you can do to guard against this type of theft is buy a better mailbox. There are many mailboxes now that only allow the postman to drop mail in the box and only the owner can access it. These extras steps require some time and effort on your part but they are well worth it.

When you order new credit cards in the mail, or your previous ones have expired, watch the calendar to make sure that you get the card within the appropriate time. If it is not received by a certain date, call the credit card grantor immediately and find out if the card was sent. Find out if a change of address was filed if you don't receive the card or a billing statement. Cancel all credit cards that you do not use or have not used in 6 months. Thieves use these very easily - open credit is a prime target.

By following these tips and avoiding sending personal information and checks from your home mailbox you can go a long way in preventing identity theft.

Gregg Hall is a business consultant and author for many online and offline businesses and lives in Navarre Florida with his 16 year old son. Get a secure mailbox from http://www.mailboxsuperstoreonline.com

Fraud - Identity Theft And Fraud

Identity theft and fraud is when someone illegally obtains someone else's personal information such as social security number and possibly credit card information for the purposes of some sort of economic gain.

Besides social security number and credit card info, other personal pieces of information that a someone might steal to commit identity fraud are your bank account number and telephone calling card number. The stealing of this information leads to a number of crimes such as illegally transferring funds from your bank account, using your telephone card to make phone calls and the worst case scenario, using your credit card number to run up large debts on your account. This is the most common type of identity fraud. Some people even go as far as committing crimes using a person's personal identification such as stolen car and drivers license. Then when the police go knocking on a door it's your door they end up knocking on. Sometimes the damage done is so extensive that the person's credit rating is destroyed and in many cases the person's life is in ruins.

So what does one do to prevent against identity theft? Actually there are a number of precautions you can take that, while they don't guarantee it won't happen to you, can greatly decrease the chances of you being a victim of identity fraud.

For starters, be very stingy about giving out your personal information to anyone, especially if they are asking for it for something that seems like it may be a scam, like if somebody tells you that they've got a sure fire way for you to make $10,000 real fast and all you have to do is give them your credit card number. This should be a warning sign that should light up the sky for you. Don't ever fall for these scams.

If someone calls you at home and says they are from your bank and need some information from you, this is most likely an attempt to get your personal info as the bank should have everything it needs on file already.

If someone calls you on the phone and says you are eligible to win some terrific prize and to qualify for it all you need to do is give them your credit card number, again, this is most likely a scam as there is no reason for you to have to give out that information if you have truly won a prize. Never fall for this one.

If you're traveling, only take what you absolutely must have with you. It's best to get travelers checks instead of carrying around a credit card. Travelers checks are insured and you won't end up running up a big debt from a lost or stolen credit card. Also, the less ID you carry with you the less chance that it can be gotten from you unless someone cracks open your head and drains the info from you.

The bottom line is to just be careful with who you trust and what you trust them with. By doing this you stand the best chance of avoiding being the victim of identity fraud.

Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Fraud

How To Avoid Getting Into Identity Theft Trouble

The credit card industry seems to be growing at an unprecedented rate. According to some statistical reports, the average American household has at least one credit card. In fact, from the total respondents in the survey, 81% of the households have at least one credit card.

This goes to show that more and more people are enticed to get their own credit card. The reasons for doing so are based on the fact that credit cards offer extreme cashless shopping convenience. Hence, everybody seems to be motivated to get at least one credit card.

However, the travails of the credit card industry do not end here. This is because the reality that evolves on the credit cards does not just depend on the way people use credit cards but with the way on how they use it and protect themselves.

What people do not realize is that the manner on how they use their credit cards can greatly affect the way they live. For instance, frauds and fraudulent activities are very prevalent in the industry and the best targets of the culprits are those who use credit cards whenever they are into shopping.

People should take note that one of the most prevalent credit card scams in the society today is the identity theft. In fact, it has been reported by the FBI that almost 350,000 up to 500,000 cases of identity theft are known to exist in the U.S. every single year.

Basically, identity theft is when some unscrupulous people try to get some information from you such as your social security number and other pertinent personal and financial data.

These sets of information are used deceitfully by these people for their own benefits. Hence, the poor victim does not realize that his identity was stolen and that his financial future is doomed.

For this reason, it is important to know how to avoid getting into trouble. Here is how:

1. Protect your personal data and any financial information

Never entertain phone calls that require you to give any personal data or information, even if the caller says he is from the bank that issued your credit card and that the information gathering is just some sort of verifications.

If this is the case, try to inform him that you wish to do the transactions personally. Hence, it is important to very if the caller is, indeed, a representative of the bank.

2. Avoid freebies and offers that involve credit cards

If you were offered with some promotions requiring you to give some personal information, then, it would be better not to entertain the promo at all.

Things like these will only entice you to try it. In the end, it is too late to realize that you have just been a victim of an identity theft.

3. Have a regular check up on your credit standing and bills

Most of credit card holders are so lazy to do regular check ups on their status. If you do this, it will be easier for you to detect any probable identity theft case on your part. Credit reports can definitely tell you if there were purchases that you know that you did not make.

4. Do not carry them around

The problem with most people is that they ten to carry their cards wherever they are. This is a bad habit that should be stopped. You will never know what will happen while you are in a public place, where identity theft could just be lurking around, waiting for its next victim.

The bottom line is that credit card users should be responsible enough not to allow these fraudulent activities to happen. Keep in mind that the reason why these kinds of frauds exist is that there are people who are unconsciously victimized every now and then.

Robert Thatcher is a freelance publisher based in Cupertino, California. He publishes articles and reports in various ezines and provides identity theft resources on www.about-identity-theft.info

Identity Theft - Resources for Victims

Identity theft could happen to anyone. These are resources that will help you once you have become the victim of identity theft.

Identity theft could happen to anyone. Someone gets hold of important information, such as your name, credit card information and social security number and uses this to make online purchases or apply for additional credit cards. The source of the information could be a "phishing" e-mail you replied to, stolen mail or one of many other ways.

At first you are probably going to be stunned when you receive that call from a credit rating company or collection agency, but you have to get over your shock and act quickly.

Step number one should be to contact your local police department and report the identity theft. At this point you should ask whether the police department has an information package or website with information on how to deal with identity theft.

If that is not the case, you can use some of the following resources to help you in the arduous process of clearing your good name and credit:

http://www.consumer.gov/idtheft/

This FTP website offers substantial resources, including a downloadable booklet in PDF format.

http://www.usdoj.gov/criminal/fraud/idtheft.html

Resources by the Department of Justice

http://www.idtheftcenter.org/index.shtml

Identity Theft Resource Center (includes P?ginas en Espa?ol)

http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/idtheft.htm

Social Security Administration website that allows you to report misues of your social security number

http://www.privacyrights.org/identity.htm

Privacy Right Clearinghouse website with numerous links to other resources.

None of this will make the process easier or less painful, but at least now you have some tools to work with.

Pamela Bruce lives in Austin, TX. She is the owner of Love Beads Unlimited and sells the sterling silver and Swarovski crystal bead jewelry she designs and creates both in her eBay store (http://stores.ebay.com/LOVE-BEADS-UNLIMITED) and on her website at http://www.lovebeadsunlimited.com, where you can also download the free e-book "A Consumer's Guide to Buying Bead Jewelry Online".

Don't be a Victim of Identity Theft

By Paul D. McDonald, M.B.A.

We live in an information-oriented society. Technology allows us to do business and make transactions literally in a matter of seconds. This abundance of information has given rise to a new crime - identity theft. In fact, according to a 2003 release from the Federal Trade Commission, approximately 27 million Americans have fallen prey to identity thieves since 1999. Each year that number climbs higher and higher. In 2003 alone, almost 10 million people in the United States reported being victimized by identity bandits.

So what does that mean? Someone has stolen your credit card - your credit card company can help you with that, right?

Well, according to the FTC, almost 60% of identity theft issues don't pertain to your existing credit card accounts. Identity theft can occur as a result of new lines of credit being opened in your name either through credit cards or bank loans, as well as phone/utility fraud and even employment related fraud. Because we are susceptible through so many avenues in our daily life, we are all at risk.

What can you do? Where would you turn if you found yourself in this situation? Would you know where to start to clear your name? Well, now you don't have to worry about what to do as we have the answer.

As you already know, Pre-Paid Legal Services?, Inc. is a pioneer of the legal services industry. With more than 30 years of experience in providing legal rights protection to our members, we have now teamed with Kroll Inc., the world's largest risk consulting company.

For more than 30 years, Kroll has helped companies, government agencies and individuals reduce their exposure to risk and capitalize on business opportunities. Kroll is an operating unit of Marsh Inc., the risk and insurance services subsidiary of Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc., the global professional services .rm. With offices in more than 60 cities in the United States and abroad, Kroll can operate and restructure businesses; scrutinize accounting practices and financial documents; gather and filter electronic evidence for attorneys; recover lost or damaged data from computers and servers; conduct in-depth investigations; screen domestic and foreign-born job candidates; protect individuals, and enhance security systems and procedures. Over the last three years, Kroll has developed a unique solution for victims of identity theft. This new service is now available to Pre-Paid Legal members through the IDENTITY THEFT SHIELD benefit.

What does this benefit provide our members? The Identity Theft Shield gives you easy access to the resources you need to understand your credit ratings and to fight back if an identity thief threatens your financial standing. This benefit is designed to alert you to suspicious account activity, and to restore any resulting damage to your credit history.

1. Credit Report Through Experian

Make sure your financial records are accurate. Your credit standing is one of your most important financial assets. It not only affects your ability to get credit, it often dictates the interest rate at which you can borrow. It can also affect your ability to purchase insurance or to find employment. Some insurance companies and prospective employers use your credit rating to gauge your sense of responsibility.

Experts recommend you review your credit report regularly. The Identity Theft Shield makes it easy. Members are entitled to an up-to-date credit report from Experian at no additional charge.

Personal Credit Score and Analysis from Experian. Know your credit score . . . and how it affects your ability to borrow.

Your credit score is derived from the information in your credit report. This score is used by lenders to determine your creditworthiness. The higher the number, the better your chance of being approved for the credit you want. A detailed analysis of your Personal Credit Score will be included with your Credit Report. You can use this analysis to evaluate your current credit standing.

2. Continuous Credit Monitoring Through Experian

Learn of suspicious activity before your credit is ruined. A professional thief can assume your identity in just a few hours. But it can take years for you to repair your credit standing. Early detection is key to minimizing the damage caused by thieves who steal you name.

With your Identity Theft Shield membership, your credit .les will be monitored through Experian daily. Suspicious activity will be brought to your attention, providing you with early detection. You'll receive prompt notice if any new accounts are opened in your name . . . or if negative notations are added to your credit report.

3. Fraud Restoration Service

Get personal assistance and advice from experts. Any discrepancy in your credit report should be addressed at once. Call our Customer Service Department at the designated Identity Theft Shield number and explain your concerns. If it is identity theft, our fraud investigators will assist you every step of the way. A Fraud Restoration package with complete and detailed materials, aids, and instructions will be rushed to you.

If you sign a Limited Power of Attorney, you will be entitled to Enhanced Restoration Services. Kroll will work with you to determine the extent of the fraud in your credit and regarding your identity. On your behalf, Kroll will issue fraud alerts to the three major credit repositories, the Federal Trade Commission, the Social Security Administration, and the United States Postal Service. Kroll will work with the bureaus, creditors, and collection agencies to restore your credit accuracy with regard to your identity theft issues. If necessary and reasonable, Kroll will work with law enforcement, the department of motor vehicles, and other organizations to resolve your identity theft issues

If you decline the Limited Power of Attorney, you will receive Basic Consulting Services. Kroll will work with you to determine the extent of the fraud in your credit and regarding your identity. Kroll will provide you with contact information and procedures for the organizations you will need to work with. Kroll will provide sample letters and forms and be available to you through a toll-free phone number for assistance and advice throughout the process of restoring your identity.

Now, it is important to understand any identity theft that occurred prior to the membership enrollment or any situations relating to a business identity are not covered. Identity Restoration will not apply if the identity theft is the result of a dishonest, criminal, malicious, or fraudulent act you, your spouse, or child participated in, directed, or had knowledge of. Restoration services will not be provided for a preexisting, known stolen identity event. You must be an active, paid member to receive restoration services. Plan benefits do not cover financial losses arising from the identity theft.

Did you know, that on average, victims spend more than 175 hours and $1,500 in out-of-pocket expenses to clear their names? With Pre-Paid Legal's IDENTITY THEFT SHIELD, the cost of combating identity theft is much less. For just $12.95 a month [$9.95 along with the Pre-Paid Legal membership], IDENTITY THEFT SHIELD members have the added security of knowing they have someone to fight the battle for them. And the best thing is, this monthly fee provides benefits to you, the member, and your spouse.

Reports on identity theft are everywhere - television, newspapers, magazines, talk shows, etc. Now that you know this benefit is available, doesn't it make sense to have this sort of coverage? Imagine the peace of mind you would have knowing you and your spouse would have access to all of these services if you found yourself to be an identity theft statistic? Contact Paul D. McDonald, Independent Associate, to sign up for your Identity Theft membership by calling toll-free 1-877-711-1264. Don't wait until it is too late - do it today!

For a full list of disclosures and exclusions, please consult the Identity Theft Shield written material provided by Pre- Paid Legal.

Paul D. McDonald, MBA is a financial professional specializing in working with seniors and business owners. He assists people in making decisions on retirement planning, investing, insurance, budgeting, debt management, and many other critical financial decisions.

Paul can be reached by email pauldmcdonald@prepaidlegal.com or by calling 1-877-711-1264. You can visit his website at http://www.877-711-1264.com for more information

What Everyone Should Know About Reducing the Risk of Identity Theft

Identity theft commonly begins with the loss or theft of a wallet or purse. But there are many or high-tech and low-tech ways criminals can get their hands on your personal and financial information in order to commit identity theft. When someone uses your name or personal information, such as your credit card number, driver's license number, Social Security number, telephone number, or other account numbers, without your permission, you become a victim of identity theft.

Thieves steal your personal information and use it to open credit accounts, bank accounts, telephone service accounts, and make major purchases in your name. These criminals use your sensitive information to take over existing accounts, or open new accounts. Their criminal activities can result in damage to your credit rating and denials to credit and job offers.

Protecting Your Identity While there are no guarantees that your identity will never be stolen or compromised, there are several steps you can take to minimize the risks. Here are a few of them:

* Before you discard your personal information that you no longer need, such as credit card receipts, billing statements, and pre-approved credit card offers, shred them using, at best, a diagonal-cut shredder.

* Create unique passwords and personal identification numbers (PINS) and avoid using easily available information such as mother's maiden name, date of birth, or last four digits of your Social Security number.

* Do not give your Social Security number to people or companies that you do not know.

* Guard your mail from theft. Promptly remove your incoming mail from your mailbox and place outgoing mail in locked collection boxes at your local Post Office.

* As an extra measure of security, install a lock on your mailbox, even if mail theft is not an identified problem in your neighborhood.

* Before disclosing personal information, even to people you know where you shop or do business, insist on knowing the reason(s) your personal information is required and how it will be used.

Low-Tech Rip-offs: Thieves can do much damage with what they remove from your mailbox.

Criminals are increasingly creative in the methods they use to get their hands or eyes on your personal information, and ultimately, your money. Here are some of the low-tech techniques they employ:

* Dumpster Diving, one of the easiest ways for them to appropriate your personal information.

* Mail Theft from unsecured residential mailboxes. According to statistics, mail theft most often takes place at unprotected and easily accessible mailboxes in public places.

* Shoulder surfing takes place when a thief watches or listens literally over your shoulder as you enter your PIN into an ATM machine. They may even follow you home or your place of work to gather additional information about you.

High-Tech Techniques: Data transferred across the Internet can be intercepted during its journey.

* Phishing and Pharming: While phishing is a scam in which consumers are tricked into entering their personal information via a bogus email and website form, pharming occurs where hackers steal personal information from numerous people simultaneously through something known as "domain spoofing". They take over a DNS server and redirect user information to a new website that they use to gather, collect, "pharm" illegal information.

* Skimming: Thieves quickly and temporarily steal a credit card and run it through a skimmer, a credit card reader that has been reprogrammed to steal information off the card.

Fight Back: Reduce the Risks

Make education about the scams, schemes, and frauds criminal use to steal your identity your priority in view of the rising occurrence of this multi-million-dollar-problem. With education comes prevention. Here are some prevention tips to help reduce the risks:

* Safeguard your personal information. Never take simple things for granted.

* Carry with your only the information you need. Always keep your personal information and documents in a safe and secured place of your choosing.

* Order and review a copy of your credit report at least once a year.

* Shred documents containing your sensitive information before discarding them.

For extensive information about ways to protect your identity, visit "Protecting Your Identity" at http://www.ProtectingYourIdentity.blogspot.com/.

Known as The Master Blog Builder, Etienne A. Gibbs, MSW, helps small business owners and non-profit organizations improve their customer relationship marketing. Often he comes across cases that are red flags calling identity thieves to come in. Hence, he started the "Protecting Your Identity" blog. Contact him at http://www.MasterBlogBuilder.com/ for more information

How to Avoid Becoming a Victim of Identity Theft

Identity theft is the fastest growing felony in North America. There are ways to reduce or minimize the risk of becoming a victim of identity theft and fraud. I have taken the following steps to avoid becoming a victim of identity theft, and so can you:

Taking care of my personal data - I never give out personal information to people on the phone and to people who do not need to know. A person on the phone saying he is calling from my bank does not need to know my personal information because it is already on the file with my bank. I never print my Social Security or my telephone number on my personal bank checks. I would unnecessarily be passing out information to people who need not know.

I have had Scamsters call with offers to receive a prize or some valuable item, and asking for my personal data, such as Social Security number, credit card number or its expiration date, or my mother's maiden name.

While on the move - If I am away for some time, I have my mail held up at the post office, or have someone I trust empty my mailbox daily. In case I need to communicate some personal information to someone, I trust. I make sure I am in a booth where no one can listen to what I am conveying.

Checking financial information regularly - I regularly receive my monthly bank and credit card statements. If this becomes irregular, I check with the concerned institution immediately to ask what is going on. Chances are that my bills are going to an address I have not authorized. Someone may have assumed my identity and be improperly using my accounts. If so, I would immediately start proceedings to cope with this identity theft to put a stop to it.

In the next article of the series, let me tell you how I would cope with identity theft.

Jon publishes articles and ebooks to help individuals with their personal finance needs and goals

Understanding and Avoiding Identity Theft

Identity theft - the assumption of our identity - is one of the least understood and most frightening problems. It is a complicated issue and let me tell you how it works: A scamster manages to get my name, address, social security number and credit card or other information. Assuming my identity, the person runs up huge bills and skips without paying, leaving me with a ruined credit and creditors baying for my blood.

Our wallet contains so much information about ourselves, which we normally do not realize. A thief can make use of the information and pretend to be us.

Reducing Exposure to Identity Theft

* We cannot prevent identity theft with a 100% certainty, but we can certainly try to reduce our exposure to it.

* We must carry only the information we need to carry out our daily dealings. We should not carry all our credit cards in our wallet. We must avoid putting our Social Security number on our checks.

* Stolen mail is one of the easiest ways to get personal statistics. Do not leave your mailbox full. If out of town, arrange to have your mail picked up by friends or family members, or arrange to leave it at the post office.

* Do we get alert if our credit card bill is late? I always call up my credit card issuer to ask why. Identity thieves can arrange to change my billing address and run up huge bills before I can realize.

* Employers, merchants, proprietors, etc may have legitimate reasons to ask for my personal information. I always find out why they want the information and provide only that which is required for that particular transaction.

* One of the oldest frauds is being asked to update out of date credit card information, over phone. I never give out any information to strangers. You too should not.

In the next article, let us learn how to avoid becoming a victim of identity theft.

Jon Sterling tries to help you overcome Personal Financial problems through informative articles to help you reach your personal financial goals.

Jon publishes articles and ebooks to help individuals with their personal finance needs and goals.

Identity Theft - the 1 most important thing you can do now!

Identity Theft - The one most important thing you can do to protect yourself!

If your credit card is ever stolen, don't panic. Immediately call the 3 national credit reporting organizations to place a fraud alert on your name and Social Security number. The alert tells every company that checks your credit (as the thief trys to use your credit card) knows your information was stolen, and they will contact you by phone to authorize new credit.

Why is this so important? By the time most people do this, days after the theft, all the damage had been done. Notifying these 3 national credit reporting organizations immediately, stops thieves dead in their tracks! Now, here are the critical numbers you will need to contact if your purse or wallet is stolen: (Print these phones numbers now and keep a copy in your coat pocket, suitcase or another safe place that you can find easily if your purse or wallet is stolen.) a.) Equifax: 1-800-525-6285 b.) Experian (formerly TRW): 1-888-397-3742 c.) Trans Union: 1-800-680-7289 d.) Social Security Administration (fraud line): 1-800-269-0271

Brought to you by www.Prepaid-Legal-Help-4U.com

I developed http://www.prepaid-legal-help-4u.com to help the 'little guy' have access to legal services previously reserved for the wealthy!

Identity Theft

Identity Theft - the 10 Best Tips You Can Use Right Now!

We've all heard horror stories about fraud that's committed by someone stealing a name, address, Social Security number or credit card. Here are 10 suggestions you can take to help protect yourself.

1. The next time you order checks, have only your initials (instead of your first name) and last name put on them. If someone takes your checkbook, they won't know if you sign your checks with just your initials or your first name, but your bank will know how you sign your checks.

2. When you are writing checks to pay your credit card accounts, DO NOT put the complete account number on the "For" line. Instead, just put the last four numbers. The credit card company knows the rest of the number, and anyone who might be handling your check as it passes through all the check processing channels won't have access to it.

3. Put your work phone number on your checks instead of your home phone. If you have a PO Box, use that instead of your home address. If you don't have a PO Box, use your work address.

4. Never have your Social Security number or driver's license number printed on your checks. You can add it if it is necessary. But if you have it printed, anyone can get it.

5. Place the contents of your wallet on a photocopy machine. Do both sides of each license, credit card, etc. You will know what you had in your wallet and all of the account numbers and phone numbers to call and cancel. Keep the photocopy in a safe place. It's also a good idea to carry a photocopy of your passport when traveling abroad.

6. For couples or friends traveling together - each of you should carry a different, unique credit card. For example, one of you could carry a Visa card and one of you a Discover card. Don't both carry the same credit card! That way if one of you has their credit card stolen, you still have a valid credit card to use and aren't completely without funds while you are traveling.

7. Another tip for couples or friends traveling together - each of you should carry the other person's photo copies of their credit cards and passport. If someone steals your wallet or purse, your traveling companion still has copies of all your information.

8. When you're reading email, don't click on any of the links listed in the email message. No matter how tempting the offer is! This is a way 'phishers' use to direct you to their website and capture your credit card and personal information.

9. We are told to cancel our credit cards immediately. But the key is having the toll free numbers and your card numbers handy so you know whom to call. Keep these numbers where you can find them separate from your credit cards.

10. File a police report immediately in the city where your credit cards, purse or wallet were stolen. This proves to credit providers you were diligent, and this is a first step toward an investigation.

Brought to you by www.Prepaid-Legal-Help-4U.com

I developed www.prepaid-legal-help-4u.com to help the 'little guy' have access to legal services previously reserved for the wealthy!

Criminal Identity Theft - Don't Let Your Good Name End up in a Criminal Database!

Criminal Identity Theft - don't think it can't happen to you! Stolen identities have ended up in criminal databases. Learn how to protect yourself, and not become a victim.

You're driving on road one night, then you notice there's a police cruiser following close behind you. You figure the cop just wants to pass you, so you move over one lane, except he moves over too and stays on your tail, then you see the flashing red & blue lights then "Woooop!!! wooooop!!!" You must be wondering why you were pulled over. You weren't speeding nor breaking any traffic laws and your tag is not expired. Maybe it's just a burned out taillight. "Sir may I see your driver's license and registration please." Then comes the shocker! "SIR... step out of the vehicle." You get patted down for weapons, drugs, etc.. "You're under arrest for outstanding warrants." On go the handcuffs "Zzzzkkkkkk! Zzzzkkkkkk!" "You have the right to remain silent..." By now, you must be thinking "OH S---!!!". "I've never been arrested in my life!" After you've been booked at the county jail, strip searched, fingerprinted, and maybe spent the weekend in the slammer, you go before the judge only to find out you're free to go, all charges dropped because it turns out you're not the person they were looking for.

Is this a case of mistaken identity, or more likely, a case of STOLEN IDENTITY, or criminal identity fraud. The most common scenario is during a traffic citation or misdemeanor arrest, the imposter fraudulently provides to an officer-of-the-law somebody else's identification, usually always that of a friend or relative, then skip town and simply not pay the fine or fail to make the required court appearance. Unlike financial identity theft, the victim is usually always known to the imposter. The judge will then issue a warrant for his arrest. In many cases, the imposter either stole or fraudulently acquired a phony driver's license or other ID, or simply "borrowed" the victim's name as an alias. The impostor is most often wanted on outstanding warrants for failure to appear. The victim is usually arrested during a routine traffic stop. This type of identity theft commonly occurs where the age and physical appearance of the two are similar. Police are tending to be much more cautious today in order to avoid false arrest lawsuits, but the system has a long way to go. Fortunately, unlike financial, criminal identity fraud is relatively rare.

In a few cases serious offenses such as DUI and felonies were committed in the victim's name and the person's name ends up in the criminal database system. The victim might in for a real shock when he is told he cannot buy a gun because he failed the instant background check, or is one day called into his boss's office, to be informed he is being fired because a criminal record showed up in a routine employee background check. In the end you probably wished this imposter were caught in Saudi Arabia where he would be sentenced to 100 lashes in the public square.

Unfortunately, the criminal justice system does not yet have a decent contingency plan in place to clear an innocent person's name. The burdon of clearing one's name lies mostly with the accused, sometimes with steep attorney's fees.

Procedures to clear your name from criminal databases varies according to state, or even individual counties. Some states already have special procedures in place for victims of criminal identity theft. Ask your state Attorney General's office.

If wrongful criminal offenses are linked to your name, first contact the original arresting police/sheriff's department who originally arrested the impostor, or else the court who issued the arrest warrant and file an impersonation report with them, and confirm your identity. Ask the police department to take your fingerprints, photograph you, and make official copies of your photo IDs, I.e.: driver's license, passport, etc.. To claim your innocence, ask the police to compare your fingerprints and photos with the imposter's.

Maintain a detailed log of all your phone conversions, paperwork, email messages, contacts, etc.. Keep a detailed record of all your expenses incurred. When writing the authorities you should always use certified mail with return receipt. Email is generally not considered secure for sending confidential private information, so it's not recommended if you can avoid it. The rule is never send out something via email that would not want to share with the public. Changing your social security number is rarely recommended as that usually causes more problems than it solves.

If the arrest warrant is from another state or county, ask your local police dept. to forward your impersonation report to the agency of the jurisdiction where the arrest warrant, traffic citation, or criminal conviction originated.

The police/sheriff's dept should recall any arrest warrants and issue you a clearance letter or certificate of release in the event you were arrested and booked. It's essential to keep this document with you at all times in case you might be falsely arrested again. Have official copies made at the courthouse, in case it gets lost. Ask the agency to file the record of the follow-up investigation establishing your innocence at the D.A's office and/or the court in the jurisdiction where the crime occurred. This will result in an amended complaint. Unfortunately once your name ends up in a criminal database, it's difficult to get it completely removed. Ask that the key name or primary name be changed from yours to the imposter's name, or else to "John Doe" if the imposter's true identity is unknown, with your name noted as an alias.

You will also want to clear your name within the court records. Determine which state law(s) will help you with this and how. If your state has no formal procedure for clearing your record, contact the D.A.'s office in the county where the case was originally prosecuted. Ask the D.A.'s office for the appropriate court records needed to clear your name. Unfortunately in some situations, you may have no choice but to hire an attorney to help you clear your good name. You may want to ask your state DMV if your driver's license was used by the imposter. Ask them to flag your files for possible fraud.

Overall, your best defense is prevention. Pick your friends carefully, and safeguard your drivers license, passports or other forms of ID.

Fred Appleyard Jr. - Visit http://www.beyourowndetective.com to learn more about identity fraud and private investigation. Get the latest tools to help you conduct your investigations.

Protect Your Network From Identity Theft Now!

It is deniable that our works and lives are more convenient and easier when using wireless. We can work anywhere and that is why wireless networks are becoming so popular. Especially if you have broadband Internet access, a wireless router can give you instant communication with the world.

Imagine you are sitting by the pool and enjoying chatting through the Internet. Or lounging in the Jacuzzi listening to your MP3 collection is appealing to us all. Unfortunately, many, or even most, wireless units don't come with security features already functioning. This may not seem like a big issue to someone who is simply setting up a home network, but there are a number of potential problems you should consider.

Identity theft seems to be the most serious problem. If your network is unsecured, the personal data on your wireless electronic equipment is also unsecured. The order you just placed for a book at Amazon may have given your contact and payment information to an unscrupulous hacker! Nearly every town in which "WiFi" is common will have "War Drivers" and "War Chalkers" at work. These are people who walk or drive around town with wireless equipment, searching for unsecured networks. The "Chalkers" then live up their name, marking curbs and other public items with chalk so that others can more easily find and exploit your network.

In fact, not all "War Drivers" are hackers, of course. Many just want to use your network for free, but the risk is high if you don't learn how to protect yourself. You can usually find quite a bit of free information as to how to secure your network at the website of your router's manufacturer, or by doing a search in a search engine for a phrase like "secure home wireless."

In addition, there are also your neighbors who may find your network by accident and enjoy nosing into your activities and using your Internet access at will, slowing down your network speed in the process.

Even many businesses use cheap, home-use quality equipment for their company networks. With the poor security often found on small business networks, anyone with a basic knowledge of wireless can access sensitive company and customer data.

It is highly recommended that you hire service companies to secure your network for you, or else you will have to bear with a risk of being exploited. A search of your local yellow pages or an inquiry at your neighborhood computer store should yield professional help and get your private data private again.

George Williams maintains many websites about network security, including Wireless, Wireless Secret ,and Wireless Now

10 Ways To Protect Yourself Against Identity Theft

As the popularity of credit cards and Internet shopping grow, so does the chance that you will become a victim of Identity Theft. One's information can be easily accessed by anyone who has your social security number and other identifying information such as credit card bills or processed checks.

Before becoming a victim of identity theft you can go on the offensive and practice prevention in 10 basic steps. There steps will not guarantee that your information does not get into the hands of a criminal, but it gives you a better chance against a syndicate of International identity theft thieves.

1. Buy a Shredder. Shredding your old bills, invoices, receipts and credit & bank statements is the first and possibly most effective way to stop dumpster divers from access your information. Before throwing away anything with private information, shred it.

If you're not sure that the info can be used to steal your identity, shred it anyway.

2. When using an ATM be weary of those standing next to you. If someone is standing too close behind you, do not be afraid to ask them to step back.

3. Hidden camera detectors. In addition to prying eyes, also be aware of surveilance devices in stores, ATMs, gas stations, and anywhere you may be using a credit card or signing your name. There are many small and affordable hidden camera frequency detectors on the market. For more information see AntiSpyCam.com.

4. Treat your checks like money. Would you stuff your mailbox with wads of cold cash? Mail theft is probably easier than dumpster diving when it comes to stealing private information, and much cleaner. Mail checks by dropping them off at the Post Office and if you do order bank checks via the web or mail, have them delivered via registered mail or FedEx.

5. Biometrics services like fingerprint or voice recognition are becoming popular in the war against identity theft or account hacking. Voice biometrics works by digitizing a profile of a person's speech to produce a stored model voice print. Many banks are now offering this service, ask yours about adding this to your bank account security options. More info on Voice Biometrics at VoiceVerified.com

6. Make a list of all of your credit card numbers, passwords, usernames and bank account numbers and guard them in a safe place. Do not keep them on your computer, especially if you use peer to peer file sharing software.

7. When applying for a credit card request that your photo be placed on the card. There are also companies which will place your photo on your checks. For more information see UniqueChecks.com

8. Write on the back of your credit card "Ask To See My ID" , most people at the register treat credit cards like cash not asking for ID. If they do not ask or forget to do so, ask them why they have not.

9. When you move be sure to register your new forwarding address with the Post Office and also inform all of your credit cards, banks, and subscriptions services personally of your new address. If they are still sending private information to your old address, cancel your card or account.

10. Don't carry your social security number or credit cards you don't use on you. You are not required to carry a social security card so lock it up. If you're not using your credit cards, keep them in a safe place with your social security card.

Mrs. Suzuki is a freelance security and techology writer and has never had her identity stolen.