Identity Theft

Identity theft has become a booming business. Although extremely morally and criminally wrong, people are being victimized by identity theft crimes at alarming rates.

A common credit card company is making efforts to help prevent identity crime by making people more aware through various outlets. Citibank has been taking steps to help their cardholders prevent and resolve identity theft.

Citibank is a large credit company that has taken the initiative to try and prevent identity theft by informing the public. This company has millions of customers worldwide and therefore has had cardholders who have become victims of identity theft. Although there is no guarantee your identity will never be stolen Citibank is helping to prevent and repair credit identity theft in many ways.

Preventative Suggestions

There are many suggestions available to consumers and credit card holders for preventing the occurrence of identity theft.

> Keep in regular contact with your credit accounts by phone.

> Scrutinize all credit card bills and identify any discrepancies you find by calling your credit issuer immediately.

> Shred all old paperwork, cards or information that has any type of identifying information on it. Never dispose of personal information without shredding first.

> Limit the amount of credit cards you have open to two. This will make it easier to keep track of accounts and changes within.

> If you lose or think your card may have been stolen it is imperative that you report it to the credit company immediately!

> Keep your credit cards at home in a safe, only take them with you when needed.

> Keep your social security number under lock and key! Memorize your number and do not carry it with you. It should be locked in a safe at home. Do not give out your number without good reason.

> Review your full credit reports regularly and dispute any information you are unsure about.

> Never respond to an email requesting account information. This is called "phishing".

Actions To Take If A Victim

At the first sign of identity theft it is important to take action. Waiting will only cause more damage to be done to your credit making it harder to repair later.

> Call your credit holders immediately and report your suspicions.

> Cancel all accounts open or at least put a hold on them by having them flagged for fraud.

> Call the police and file a report so they may begin an investigation.

> Let all your creditors and account holders know so they can help you.

> Check your credit report and have it flagged for identity theft.

> Check with the county courthouse where your birth certificate was issued to insure it hasn’t been accessed. Also check for recently issued drivers license and social security cards.

> Check with the post office to insure your address or name hasn’t been changed and post office boxes haven’t been issued in your name.

By becoming proactive you may help to prevent having your identity stolen. Credit companies such as Citibank are trying to help prevent and solve identity theft making it harder for criminals. Having accounts through businesses such as Citibank who are taking the initiative to make identity theft difficult are a good step in defending against criminal activity.