Your Identity In Crisis: Skimming, Phishing, Dumpster Diving

It is truly amazing how accessible information has become in recent years. We seldom stop to think how easily and quickly certain things can be done, like approving a credit card, transferring money, or a filling a prescription. While this can be a big positive in many respects, one must also consider the potential downside to having certain data so readily available. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) estimates that as many as 10 million Americans have their identities stolen each year. In 2008, the State of Florida ranked third in the nation for number of victims of identity theft with 24,440 reported cases. That represents a 26.8% increase over the number of complaints filed the previous year (19,270). Chances are, you or someone you know may have experienced some form of identity theft.

The following information will help you to take a proactive approach in securing your information and keeping your identity safe. Remember, education is the best defense against fraud and deception. For Florida residents and visitors, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is here for you -- their Consumer Hotline will answer any questions you may have or direct you to the best resource for assistance. If you are calling within Florida simply dial 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352), outside of Florida 850-488-2221 or en Español 1-800-FL-AYUDA (352-9832).


Skimming

Skimming is the theft of credit card information used in an otherwise legitimate transaction. There are a number of different skimming techniques, but each involve a small, electronic storage device that traps information from the magnetic strip on a consumer's credit card when it is swiped during a transaction. These devices have been found to be used by restaurant staff and even attached to gas pumps and ATM's. Some are now Bluetooth compatible, meaning the fraudster can simply drive by and download the information once the device is in place. There are a variety of ways that consumers can minimize the threat of skimming. When dining out and cash is not readily available, try to use a major credit card to pay for the transaction. If you use a credit/debit card that's tied to your bank account, try to always use the "credit" option and avoid using your pin. Most credit issuing companies offer protection against fraudulent charges but those charges aren't always covered when using the PIN feature on your debit card. When using an ATM or paying for gas at the pump, examine the card reader thoroughly. If it appears loose or your card doesn't seem to slide smoothly, immediately notify the bank or gas station manager.

Phishing

Phishing is a term used when scammers falsify their identity, normally by stating they represent a legitimate corporation or governmental agency. They try to entice the consumer into revealing their personal information such as bank account numbers, Social Security numbers, passwords, or other sensitive data. Phishing attacks can happen through the internet, email, regular mail, or your telephone. A new twist on a phishing scam has been reported where the victim has a phony parking ticket placed on their car while shopping. The ticket directs the person to a so-called "official" website that claims to have photos of the violation. Visiting the website can cause malware (malicious software) or a computer virus to be downloaded on to your computer. This software/virus may even allow the user's keystrokes to be captured, potentially giving the fraudster access to online passwords, account numbers, and any other sensitive data. Help put a stop to this... If you do get a phishing email, forward it to "This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.", as well as to the company, bank, or organization being impersonated.


Additional Tips To Avoid ID Theft

  1. Identity thieves desperate for data will also resort to digging in your trash (Dumpster Diving) or just plain stealing your wallet, purse, or mail. Shred all unwanted mail that contains any personal information and pay attention to your billing cycles. If a bill or financial statement is late, contact the sender as well as the post office.
  2. Your personal information must be safeguarded, especially your Social Security number. This is the key that unlocks your personal identity. Don't give it to anyone unless it is truly necessary. Ask your health insurance provider and other companies that may use this number as an identifier if they can provide you with a substitute number to use instead.
  3. Put some extra thought into the passwords placed on your credit card, bank, and phone accounts. Avoid using easily available information like your mother's maiden name, birth date, and the last four digits of your SSN. Combinations of letters, numbers, and special characters make the strongest passwords.

The effects of identity theft can linger for months, or even years, but damage can be minimized by early detection. Consumers should go to www.annualcreditreport.com to access their one free credit report every year. As soon as you suspect that you've become a victim: file a report with your local police, close any accounts that have been tampered with or opened fraudulently, place a "Fraud Alert" on your credit reports with each of the credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion), and report the theft to the FTC at www.ftc.gov/idtheft or 1-877-ID-THEFT.

For more consumer information, or help finding the right resource for assistance, call the Florida Department of Consumer Services at 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352) calling within Florida, 850-488-2221 outside of Florida, 1-800-FL-AYUDA (352-9832) en Español, and a consumer specialist will be happy to assist you. You can also visit us online at www.800helpfla.com.