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ID theft protection… or snake in the grass
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BEWARE of services that boast about “preventing” identity theft. This is an inaccurate claim because identity theft cannot be prevented and chances are, with our own technology, most everyone has already been exposed. In fact, the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse reports that 340 million US identities have been breached since 2005. Therefore, everyone should take reasonable measures. However, in response to this fast growing crime questionable prevention services have emerged. The Federal Trade Commission warns, “…before you pay for an identity theft prevention product or service, make sure you understand exactly what you’re paying for.”
And BEWARE of identity theft ads that speak strictly in terms of Financial Identity Theft. Depending on the expert, there are at least seven different types. Driver’s license and Social Security ID theft allow for 1099 employees to work - so that you can be taxed later by the IRS for income you did not earn. Medical ID theft speaks for itself but instead of just being a financial or legal matter, it is about your medical records… and theoretically it can kill you! Character or Criminal ID theft is when you hear what real handcuffs feel like because someone didn’t go to court on your behalf for drugs or prostitution. Multiple ID theft resembles being garnished for child support payments in one state while you are facing DUI charges in another state. And Synthetic ID thieves like to create brand new identities by mixing names and SSNs to confuse the Social Security Administration and the Credit Reporting Agencies.
And also BEWARE of identity theft prevention services that give you the FIRST MONTH FREE or promise high-dollar Identity Theft Insurance (full of exclusions, restrictions, and small print). Remember what someone once said, “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” You can learn more by visiting the Federal Trade Commission’s website.
The FTC provides consumers with a FREE, 46-page booklet that explains how to deter, detect, and defend against identity theft. You can place your own fraud alerts, opt out of junk-mail, and so much more for FREE. The FTC booklet is titled, TAKE CHARGE, Fighting Back Against Identity Theft. You can download a copy or request a free copy in the mail. This powerhouse reference is the book that many prevention services do not want you to see.
Get your copy today! You should be proactive and vigilant in protecting your family, even if you do have an identity theft prevention service.
Whatever you do, don’t get bitten by that snake in the grass.
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