What is Identity Theft?

Identity theft is the stealing of personal information to help an individual pretend to be someone else.  With the information, be it a social insurance number or driver license, the criminal can gain access to people's credit, merchandise, services and other benefits.  Becoming a victim to identity theft can be both stressful and traumatic.

Ways to Avoid Identity Theft: 

Plain and Simple "PROTECT YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION"

• Do not keep all your information in one place.
• Do not write down your PIN anywhere for any of your cards or web access.
• Always deal with a "secure socket layer" protected website when doing any personal business online.  Protected addresses should have a https:// beginning not a http://
• Do not give out your personal information or PIN in any emails or snail mail.
• Do not give out any information at all that you use as details for security verification such as your mother's maiden name, pet, favorite food, etc.,

How To Find Out More:

PhoneBusters - visit www.phonebusters.com or toll free at 1-888-495-8501

Diebold - ATM Safety - visit www.atmconsumersafety.com

The Seniors' Resource Centre - visit www.seniorsresource.ca

More info on Identity Theft - visit http://crcvc.ca/docs/Identity_Theft.pdf