Below is a listing of my notes from the talk. I think the group enjoyed it.

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Just yesterday, the FTC reported that identity theft rose over 15 percent last year. They reported that over half a billion dollars lost due to this type of theft and other frauds. Identity was top on the list

Consider some statistics for 2003:
Est Victims of identity theft in 2004: 9.3 million
Average amount of money spent to clear thefts: $1,495
Number of hours victims spent recovering from identity theft: 600
Average number of credit card applications through identity theft: 8.4

Talk Into
First - (How)
Next - (Prevent)
After - (What if Victim)
Finally (Consumer Protection Week)

How Does it Happen

Show of Hands
Bits and Pieces that identify us
Theives - hook or by crook - obtain these facts
Turn the into fiction

Largely lost wallets
People you know
Corrupt Employees
Hackers
Spyware
Garbage
Phishing

Prevention

1) Get copies of your credits reports
- Fair Credit Reporting Act
- 1 free per year
- Quick Discovery is huge

2) Be guarded with your info
- Don't carry info
* most frequently reported source was a lost/stolen wallet
- Ask before revealing your social

3) Pay attention to billing cycles for your accounts
- your mail
- Use electronic monitoring of accounts:
BetterBus Bureau recommends:
-fast
-constant


4) Secure your computer / Buy A Shedder / Receipts
- Secure Certificate
- DSL/Firewall
- Vigilent with email
- Phishing

What if a victim
0) Close Accounts

1) Contact 3 Credit Bureas
- TransUnion
- Equifax
- Experian

2) Fraud Alert placed on your credit accounts

2) Contact the Police department
- report
- documentation

3) Identity Theft Affidivit
-often overlooked

National Consumer Protection Week

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