Identity Theft (they finally got me)

[jeffrefrig]

They stole my identity once. After 5 days they paid ME to take it back!
Really, I've had < $300 purchases on my credit card after buying something from one of the magazines most of us get. I called my credit union where the card was through (can't remember if it was my debit or credit card) and they fixed it for me. Also, twice on drives to FLA from PA, my card co. called me and asked if it was me getting gas and fast food at places along the way. After certain security questions they opened the hold on my card.

 

[moosedog]

Your social security number was never meant to be used as part of your ID. But here in Michigan they use it on your medical records which is actually against the law but was never enforced.
I've had several breaches of my credit and finally went to a fraud alert thru my bank which monitors all particulars of mine and my wife's ID. It's a shame that we have to live like that. This technology is both a blessing and a curse.

 

[Jon651]

Here's a link (I hope...) to a previous thread where I listed the direct links to where you can apply security freezes at all three credit bureaus:

http://smith-wessonforum.com/lounge/651144-fico-score.html#post141159468

Now I'll never be able to convince Hittman77 of their benefit, but they are free, not too troublesome to apply and remove, and above all provide an extra layer of credit security you otherwise wouldn't have. I recommend that everyone do their own research and decide if it's worth it for themselves.

Another nice benefit is having a freeze often makes you think twice before applying for that credit card with the low, low introductory rate that the cute cashier at the checkout counter is pushing so you can save an extra 10% today only. But only if you act now!

 

[Onomea]

... I'm not concerned about identity theft...

Muss, why is that?

BTW, per the Feds, the Chinese got my info, too, in that breach. Probably true of a lot (most?) of us who've had clearances. (Between the Chinese and the Russians ... or maybe I should say among the Chinese, the Russians, the Iranians, the North Koreans, etc... Cyber security in our country is a joke...)