Key Statistics Of An Individual's Identity Theft

• 11.1 MILLION adults were victims of identity theft in 2009.


• The total fraud amount was $54 BILLION.


• The average victim spends 21 hours and approximately $375 out of pocket resolving the crime.


• 13% of identity fraud crimes were committed by someone the victim knew.

Three common methods used by thieves.

1. Stealing mail from unlocked mail boxes--Think of how easy it would be for someone to snag a pre-approved credit card application from your front porch, fill it in with your name, and send it in using a different mailing address.


2. Dumpster diving--Anytime you throw out a document that has a credit card #, Social Security #, bank statement, or any other personal information, you are creating an ideal opportunity for someone to dig through your trash and get their hands on it.


3. Shoulder surfing--This occurs when someone watches over your shoulder at an ATM machine or on a checkout line at any store and steals your PIN.

Preventive methods.

1. shred your mail--Pre-approved applications, bank statements, financial dealings.


2. shred your garbage--Cancelled checks, old insurance policies, check books from inactive accounts, cancelled check, Social Security information.


3. Permanently remove your name from the pre-approved mail offer list. Call (888) 5OPT-OUT (888-567-8688), or visit www.optoutprescreen.com.


4. remove your name from direct marketing/bulk mailing lists.