Offline Identity Threats
Identity theft is a very real problem in our society. It's a crime, one that takes a heavy financial and emotional toll on those who fall victim to it. And it affects millions of Americans every day.
In general, most people are aware of the risk that online shopping and fraudulent emails pose, and they have even taken steps to stay safe. But, the truth is that online identity theft is not nearly as common as fraud committed in offline environments. Routine trips to the bank or grocery, accepting a check from someone for a purchase, or answering the questions of a telemarketer could all be potentially hazardous situations if you're not sure how to identify a thief.
With that in mind, we've assembled this useful educational resource dedicated to protecting your identity at home and while shopping offline. We encourage you to browse through these pages and become familiar with the variety of methods that thieves use to deceive consumers. More importantly, we ask that you keep them in mind every day, because staying one step ahead of identity thieves is the key to keeping yourself — and your finances — safe and sound.
Safeguarding Against Telemarketing Scams
Learn to listen for clues to avoid giving an identity thief too much information over the phone. Telemarketers are more than dinnertime interruptions — some are identity thieves who are skilled at convincing you to surrender information without even knowing you're becoming a victim.
Preventing Cell Phone Fraud
Be careful when you talk and text — you could be providing a cell phone scammer with the information he or she is looking for. Learn what to avoid with the information provided here.
Stopping Check Scams
Does that work-at-home offer sound too good to be true? It is. In fact, most job offers that ask you to deposit or wire money turn out to be check scams. Protect yourself by proactively learning the ins and outs of check fraud.
Offline Shopping Safety
Stay off the radar of identity thieves by learning what they're looking for. These helpful precautions can keep you one step ahead of thieves who target busy shoppers.