Protecting Your Identity: Identity Theft

Identity theft is the nation's fastest growing crime: every minute, 13 more people become victims. One of four titles in the Financial Fitness for Young Adults series—which is targeted towards those just gaining their financial independence and opening credit card and banking accounts in their own names—Protecting Your Identity: Identity Theft illustrates how shockingly easy it is to become a victim of this type of fraud, while also demonstrating that it is very simple to protect yourself from it ever happening. A variety of consumer experts explain the nuts and bolts of identity theft—what it is, who does it, how it happens, and most importantly, how to prevent it and what to do if it happens to you. The information is straightforward, comprehensive, and extremely practical, covering everything from who can legitimately ask for your Social Security number, to why you should shred bank statements. Important contact information is also provided, including the Federal Trade Commission hotline and phone numbers for the three big credit report companies. Given the fact that a disproportionate number of young people (ages 18-29) are targeted for identity theft, this program offers important advice for those just starting out on their own. The other titles in the series are: Saving Here...Saving Now, Taking Credit for Your Credit, and Valuing Your Money. Highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (E. Gieschen)