How to Avoid “Identity Theft”

Recent statistics reveal that each year approximately 700,000 individuals are falling victim to a new breed of criminal known as "identity thieves". With a minimal amount of valid information, a skilled thief can quickly assume an individuals’ identity to conduct numerous crimes. One of the biggest problems with cases involving “identity theft” is that it can take months before the victim is aware of any wrongdoing.

 How does domeone steal an identity

1. Dumpster Diving - Thieves rummage through rubbish bins searching for personal information.

2. Mail theft - Thieves seek out and steal from unattended/unlocked mailboxes.

3. “Inside” sources - A dishonest service provider with access to personal records.

4. Imposters - Someone who fraudulently poses as a representative who has a “legitimate or legal” reason to access a victim's personal information.

5. Online Data - Thieves access data that consumers share through phone listings, directories, etc.

6. Direct Access to Personal Documents in the Home - Someone gains legitimate access into a person’s home through household work, babysitting, friends, etc.

7. Purse Wallet Theft - Stolen purses and wallets usually contain plenty of credit cards and personal identification.

 Online Security Tips for Cardholders

1. Protect your Visa card with the “Verified by Visa” service. This added password protection helps ensure that only you can use your Visa Card online. Login to www.pcu.com.au for details.

2. Never give out your personal or account information to anyone you do not trust. Verify a business’s legitimacy by visiting its website,or calling a phone number obtained by a trusted source.

3. Online passwords, including your “Verified by Visa” password, should be kept secret from outside parties the same way you protect your ATM pin.

4. Look for signs of security, such as a lock image at the bottom of your browser, or a URL that begins with https://. These signs indicate that only you and the merchant can view your payment information.

5. Keep a record of your transactions by saving and/or printing the order confirmation.

6. Review your monthly account statement thoroughly. Immediately investigate suspicious activity to prevent any possible additional fraud before it occurs.

7. Do not respond to email requests claiming to be your service provider requesting account and password details.