4/10/2006

Identity Theft Protection Tips

"There are many different definitions of what constitutes 'Identity Theft.' Under the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act of 2003 (FACT Act), the definition is broad: 'a fraud committed or attempted using the identifying information of another person without authority.' Whatever definition is used, identity theft is a growing crime that can threaten the confidence we share in our open and robust financial system if we don't take action. We all have a role to play in combating identity theft.

This page [from the U.S. Treasury Department] contains information on what identity theft is, simple steps individuals can take to prevent it, and what they can do if they become victims. There is also information on what industry and law enforcement are doing to fight the crime and a report on various technologies used to combat identity theft. The Treasury Department also developed 'Identity Theft: Outsmarting the Crooks,' a DVD that includes a Resource Library of supporting materials" which may be ordered or excerpts of which may be viewed on the website.