IDENTITY THEFT
You’ve heard about identity theft. And, perhaps you know a few victims. Friends and family who’ve had their credit card numbers stolen, or their bank accounts cleared out. But it could never happen to you. Or, could it?
The unfortunate reality is that identity theft is on the rise. Yet, there are steps you can take to protect yourself. And that means being vigilant about protecting your personal information.
DEFINING THE PROBLEM
The term “identity theft” refers to a collection of illegal activities, all of which involve stealing personal information such as debit card numbers, social insurance numbers and credit card details. Thieves go shopping, or sell your confidential information to others. They can also use your social insurance number to work illegally or to avoid paying taxes.
The growing number of consumers who conduct business and leisure activities online, and who use ATM machines and cell phones, has resulted in identity theft becoming a bigger problem that it was a decade ago. Ironically, many identity theft incidents actually start off in a very low-tech environment – stolen mail, obtaining credit card numbers by the phone and “dumpster diving ” into blue boxes.
BEATING THE IDENTITY THIEVES
What can you do to protect yourself?
- Keep vital identity-establishing documents – such a borth certificate, passport and social insurance card – at home in a safe place.
- If you need to carry your health card and drivers license, keep them in your wallet. And, keep your wallet within close range at all times.
- If somebody calls or e-mails you asking for credit card numbers, your social insurance number or banking details, be suspicious. Hang up the phone or mark e-mail as junk. No reputable business would ever solicit business this way.
- If you’re worried you have given out sensitive information by mistake, immediately cancel the card. Report the incident to your local police or to the RCMP-sponsored group, Phonebusters: 1-888-495-8501.
- Tell your bank immediately if a bank card or credit card statement goes missing; thieves sometimes redirect mail. If you’re not vigilant, it could take weeks to notice a missing bill or statement.
When recycling documents with financial and personal information, tear them up into tiny pieces or use a shredder.
WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU ARE A VICTIM OF IDENTITY THEFT?
You’ll likely have to spend some time reorganizing your affairs. For some, that simply means obtaining a new bank or credit card. For others, who are victims of major identity theft, it could mean hundreds of hours spend opening new accounts, applying for replacement cards, obtaining new social insurance number and restoring a damaged credit rating.
On the up-side though, if you do lose money or goods as a result of identity theft, most banks and credit card companies, and many reputable merchants, will reimburse you – especially if you report it early.
While identity theft can be a very sophisticated form of crime, there are simple precautions you can take to protect yourself- including following the suggestions outlined here.
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