Identity thieves are constantly exploring new and inventive methods for defrauding consumers. To minimize your chances of being targeted, you might want to consider following these basic guidelines:
Refuse any "prize" or sweepstakes "win" requiring advance purchase
If you want a payment card, deal directly with a financial institution. There's no reason to pay a third party. If you have problems with your credit history, many issuers offer secure cards where the credit limit is equal to a customer deposit.
No one can magically erase a bad credit report. Legitimate negative information can stay on your report for up to seven years
Never dial unfamiliar "900" or international numbers you don't know. You could wind up with a huge phone bills
Don't answer "yes" to prompts on telephone calls unless you are familiar with the company
Firmly say "NO" If you are not interested in a telemarketing offer, then hang up
Resist the pressure to "buy now". Take your time to think about the offer.
Scam Operators depend on the embarrassment and the silence of victims to stay in business. If you are the victim of a scam - or think someone has tried scamming you - Take Action
Report any suspicious activity to the office of your state attorney's general. You can find the local office in the 'blue pages' of your phone book or by going online to the National Association of Attorneys General.
Older family members or friends can sometimes be more vulnerable to scams. Help protect them against fraud and help them to report any fraudulent activity
