Thursday 16 June 2016

Identity Theft – Points to Know

Identity theft is a serious matter and a great cause of concern for individuals! Statistics reveal that approximately 15 million residents in United States have their identities used fraudulently each year. With time, the sophistication and techniques used by professional identity thieves has evolved and poses to be an ever-increasing threat. So, it is very important that individuals are well aware of identity theft and the risks it poses. If you feel that you have been a target of identity theft, get in touch with private investigators in Dallas immediately.
Identity theft is a type of fraud where a person pretends to be someone else to gain benefits or steal money. From using a person’s identity to open bank accounts to credit card details for shopping, an impostor obtains and uses key pieces of personal identifying information of others. Here are few ways to avoid and spot identity theft that you need to be aware of –
  • Never reveal your Social Security Number to anyone over the phone or email. Always consider who is asking for the information, are the authorized to do so and how are they going to use your personal details. Impostors always target Social Security Number as it gives them access to the bank accounts and credit report.
  • Do not respond to requests like account number verification or password verification via phone, regular mail or email. It is one of the most common ways of phishing used by scamsters.
  • Analyze your bank accounts on a regular basis to ensure there are no suspicious transactions or unauthorized charges. Also, monitor your credit report to check for irregular activities.
  • Immediately report the theft or loss of credit card, wallet or anything else that can reveal your personal information.
  • Do not leave behind your paper receipts of gas, ATM, credit cards and others.
Identity theft is really common so always watch out for signs or indicators that seem suspicious. If you have a doubt that you have become a victim of identity theft, Investigative Resources of Texas will help clarify your doubts. Call 214 662 1006 today.