Don't become an identity theft statistic

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Patrick Hyde
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  Identity theft is becoming more popular in the U.S. as well as other places in the world. Identity theft first emerged in the 1990s but it wasn't until 1998 that an act was initiated to identify the problems associated with this increasing crime.

The "Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act of 1998" is a federal act covering information on identity theft. The act encompasses the crime, identity theft and breaks it down into smaller categories.

Financial Identity Theft is using another's name and social security number to obtain goods and services. When people gather enough personal information they can assume your identity and apply for credit cards and loans thereby damaging the credit rating of the victim. 

The Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act (2003) amended the U.S. Code, and made knowingly transferring, possessing or using any means of identification without lawful authority a federal crime, along with the unlawful possession of identification documents. 

There are several ways to prevent someone from taking your identity and using it for their own benefit. "Being aware and on top of your credit report is one way to monitor if your activities are being compromised," said Capt. McCammon, 39th Air Base Wing assistant staff judge advocate. 

To access and receive a free copy of your credit report visit: http://www.creditreport.com. This is one way to stay current and know what is happening with your personal accounts. 

In addition to monitoring credit reports and knowing what information they contain, there is also another facet to think about. Identity theft can be carried out using computers. A phishing Web site is a fake site that disguises itself to look like a legitimate site people regularly visit. Phishing Web sites use deception to get people to put in personal information in hopes to get them to give out account numbers and passwords. 

When accessing reputable Web sites use bookmark features to visit the site again. This cuts down the likelihood of encountering a fake or fraudulent Web site in the future. When inputting account numbers or other personal information online make sure the Web site has a yellow padlock on the bottom of the screen. This padlock indicates it is an encrypted, secure site. 

"Internet security is foremost in protecting yourself from all the scams that are floating around in cyberspace," said Captain McCammon. "Safeguarding your personal information is paramount and having a good Internet security program that identifies potential security breaches is a good preventative measure." 

If identity theft is suspected the Federal Government has a Web site where people can go for help at http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft. This site will give detailed information on how to contact and get information to the authorities that can help process complaints.