National Protect Your Identity Week

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Last year, nearly 10 million people were victims of identity theft, making this the fastest growing crime in America. Identity theft often happens when a person least suspects it, such as when they use a credit card. There are a multitude of different tactics that are used to steal one's identity -- leaving victims scared, confused and financially hurt.

This is National Protect Your Identity Week. Over 160 events are taking place across the country from October 17 through the 24th to help protect and arm consumers with information to fight identity fraud. Consumers can take advantage of identity theft workshops, onsite shredding and credit report reviews.

For a complete list of events visit www.ProtectYourIDNow.org or the Spanish language site CuideSuIdentidad.org The Web sites also include identity theft prevention tips, videos, an interactive quiz to assess your risk of identity theft, and resources for ID theft victims.

In a recent survey by the National Foundation for Consumer Credit (NFCC) consumers revealed that their greatest concerns about someone stealing their identity revolve around the personal side of being victimized

• not knowing who had access to their personal information
• insecurity about being victimized again
• remembering that the thief would know where they live

A coalition of national organizations are supporting the NFCC's effort to combat ID theft. This Coalition includes: Consumer Action, the American Bankers Association Education Foundation, AFSA Education Foundation, Consumer Federation of America, Credit Union National Association, Federal Trade Commission, Identity Theft Resource Center, Jump$tart Coalition for Financial Literacy, Junior Achievement USA, National Council of LaRaza, National Crime Prevention Council, National Education Association Member Benefits, National Sheriff’s Association, Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, and the National Association of Triads.