Senior Citizens "All Points Bulletin" February 2008
SENIOR CITIZEN ALL POINTS BULLETIN
February 10, 2008
Hello,
I hope everyone is having a safe winter. Just remember spring is just around the corner
I'd like to take a minute to talk about identity theft. Identity theft is a rapidly growing problem. Have you ever been a victim of identity theft? Or should I ask do you know if you have been a victim? Do you know how to receive your free credit report? These are all questions that you need to ask yourself before you are a victim of identity fraud.
Given this modern age of the internet, ATM cards, online banking, and credit cards your personal information is every where. There are so many opportunities for crooks to steal your identity.
The first step in protecting your identity is to request a free credit report every year. By law the 3 major credit reporting companies have to give you a copy of your credit report every 12 months if you request it. To request a copy of your credit report you can go to www.annualcreditreport.com or call 1-877-322-8228. Make sure you do not use other websites that offer free reports if you join their services. More than likely they are a scam, sad but true.
Once you have your credit report you need to check for any discrepancies. There may be mistakes with your name, social security number, ect. Also check for any loans or delinquent reports that are not yours. If you find an error or inaccuracies you must first tell the consumer reporting company in writing. Then you must Tell the creditor in writing that you are disputing an item.
Having your identity stolen can be an extremely horrible experience. Not knowing that you have bad credit due to fraudulent charges can effect a loan or even when applying for a new job.
For more information you can contact the Federal Trade Commission at www.ftc.gove/credit This month I will be assembling a packet that will be stuffed with you credit rights. Anyone interested in this packet can just stop by the station for one. I will also bring them to the March Senior meeting at the town hall.
Stay safe,
Darrell Gilmore,
Sergeant DPD