Tips to Reducing the Risk of Identity Theft

By Carrie Kerskie

Every three seconds someone becomes a victim of identity theft. Florida is number one in the country for identity theft complaints. Naples is number three in the country nationwide for identity theft complaints. No one is immune from identity theft. In fact, there is nothing you can do or a service you can buy that will prevent it from happening to you. However, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of becoming a victim.

MySSA

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has launched My Social Security Account (MySSA) which permits you to manage your benefits online. To create your account visit www.SSA.gov and click in the box where it says “my Social Security”. You will be required to enter your name, address, date of birth and social security number. Note: the site uses the latest security measures to protect your information. Next you will be asked a series of questions based on your Experian credit report. Questions such as: how much is your mortgage payment, what is the address of the property where you have the mortgage, or how much is your car loan payment. After answering the questions you will be able to view your benefits. You can also change your deposit account or you can file for benefits if you are not yet receiving them. Unfortunately thieves have been using this system to steal your benefits. To prevent this from happening to you have two options:

1. Create your MySSA account online, as mentioned above
2. Block electronic access to your information online or by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213

The act of either setting up your account or requesting to block electronic access will prevent someone else from creating an account using your information. If, when you are attempting to create or block your account, you are notified you already have an account you may already be a victim. You will need to contact Social Security to notify them of the potential fraud and inquire about the procedures to correct the problem.

Credit Reports

Per federal regulation you are entitled to receive one free credit report from each credit bureau (Experian, Equifax and TransUnion) every twelve months. To order and review your credit reports online visit www.annualcreditreport.com. You will be required to enter your sensitive information. You will also be asked a series of questions to verify your identity. Because of this I recommend you do this where you have access to your financial records (mortgage, loan and other information). The process could take an hour or more.

Junk Mail Opt-Out

There are two ways to stop the junk mail you receive such as pre-approved credit card offers, magazine subscriptions, offers for services, etc.

1. DMAchoice.org was created by the Direct Marketing Association to block unwanted solicitations. Visit their website, enter your information (name, street address and email address) and then list your opting-out preference(s). You can choose to opt-out of specific categories of direct mail or all categories of direct mail. This service is free of charge. If you prefer to register by mail you can download the registration form from www.DMAchoice.org. The fee to register by mail is $1.00.
2. OptOutPrescreen.com allows you to opt-out from receiving pre-approved credit card offers. This program reports directly to the credit bureaus Experian, Equifax, TransUnion and Innovus. You can register online or by calling 888-567-8688. Once registered will receive a confirmation letter. You have the option to sign the confirmation letter and return it to OptOutPrescreen. Doing so will make your registration permanent. If you choose to not return the confirmation page your registration will be valid for five years.

These are just a few of the tips to reduce your risk of becoming a victim of identity theft. If you would like additional information you can visit my website CarrieKerskie.com. There you can read articles and register for my free electronic newsletter. You only need to enter your name and email address. I promise that I will not sell, rent, lease, or share your information. I am here to help. If you have a question or need assistance give me a call or send me an email.

Contact Information:
Carrie Kerskie
(239) 435-9111
Email: ck@kerskie.com
Website: www.Kerskie.com
Blog: www.CarrieKerskie.com
Twitter: @carriekerskie

Carrie Kerskie and the views expressed in this article are not necessarily the opinion of, nor is she, affiliated with Ciccarelli Advisory Services, Inc. or FSC Securities Corporation.