Tax Talk with Anne M. Gannon
Aug 2008 | Vol. 2, Issue 8

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Don’t become a Victim of Identity Theft

Did you know that identity theft is the fastest growing crime in America? Did you know that only 1 in 700 identity thieves are ever caught? And if these criminals do get caught, the punishment is so minor that they have no deterrent to stop. The experts say either you are a victim of identity theft or you will be a victim of identity theft. No one is safe anymore.

Here are 8 tips to protect you from ID thieves:

  1. Opt out of unsolicited credit card offers by calling 888-567-8688.
  2. Get spyware protection for your computer.
  3. Don’t return warranty cards for purchased items. Save your receipt, that’s all you need to make a claim.
  4. Have your mail sent to a post office box instead of your home address.
  5. Never open e-mail from anyone you don’t know.
  6. Use different passwords for your online accounts.
  7. Mix numbers and letters, upper and lowercase, in passwords.
  8. Shred all documents especially from credit card companies, before discarding.

 

Anne M. Gannon was elected as Tax Collector of Palm Beach County in November, 2006. Tax Collector Gannon invites you to contact our office with questions at (561) 355-2264, or visit our website.