Identity theft is a hot topic these days and whether you realize it or not, you are at risk. Identify theft is on the rise and it can happen to anyone.
What is Identity Theft? According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, identity theft refers to the preparatory stage of acquiring and collecting someone else’s personal information for criminal purposes. As of January 8, 2010, Senate Bill S-4 became law, making it illegal to possess another person’s identity information for criminal purposes.
Who is at risk? In short, everyone is at risk. Identity theft is a threat to anyone who has a credit card, owns real estate, pays taxes, owns insurance… In the last year alone major retailers have had their payment systems hacked, compromising the personal information of millions of customers. Home Depot had 56 million cards compromised; Target had 40 million. Global News reported that there have been nearly 4,000 privacy and data breaches in federal departments over the last year or so. The worst offender was the Canada Revenue Agency.
How do thieves acquire someone else’s personal information? In addition to widespread data breaches, the classic examples of identity theft techniques are rummaging through people’s garbage and/or stealing their mail in order to obtain bank statements, credit card statements, driver’s license or healthcare card renewals – any piece of mail with personal information. Of course the Internet has allowed for much more sophisticated and elaborate forms of identity theft – malware, spyware, viruses, phishing, spear fishing and hacking are effective ways to collect personal information.
If you’re a victim of identity theft then no doubt you’re in the midst of some serious financial issues right now that require the help of a professional trustee. Contact the Ira Smith team as soon as possible. Financial problems can be solved given immediate action and the right plan. Starting Over, Starting Now you can be on the road to getting your old life back.
Watch for our next blog when we’ll be discussing Identity Theft – How to Recognize if You’re a Victim.