10 million Americans annually are the victim of identity theft.
10 million and one.
Welcome back to civilization. For the second time this year, I've been the victim of identity theft. The first time it was an employee at my bank who stole many people's personal information. Yesterday, it was as a result of doing business with Paypal.
Whereas my bank was on it and apologizing and notifying me, Paypal has been quite the opposite. So be forewarned to be cautious with Paypal, and I understand, Ebay, too.
Today I'm filling out a police report, calling Social Security or writing them at www.ssa.gov/oig, I canceled my bank account, froze my credit file (for me too), and bought insurance with Equifax to constantly scan my social security number for suspicious use.
I filed a complaint at the Federal Trade Commission (877) 438-4338 where I spoke to someone who said they get many calls every day regarding identity theft and Paypal. You can also write www.consumer.gov/idtheft
If your credit isn't frozen, it's important to check your credit report regularly and make sure only you have taken out a credit card, home loan, car loan, or whatever.
This sort of theft is common.
In my opinion, never give personal information over the internet to a bank or make a purchase unless you totally know it's safe. As of this writing, I don't know if I'll ever trust internet banking again. Though at same time, I acknowledge a theft occurred within my brick and mortar bank earlier this year, which goes back to we're in an age when we really need to be vigilant and watch everything at all times.
As you might imagine, I haven't felt like blogging or banking.
A friend of mine still puts money under the mattress and pays just about everything with cash.
Hmmm.
To read more about what to do if you think you're an identity theft victim, click here.
