ID Theft Risk Factor:
Applied for financing on the Internet
“While I was shopping around for a better mortgage rate, I shared my personal information with at least eight potential lenders. Every one of their sites claimed to be secure. Yet shortly thereafter, my bank notified me of suspicious debit card withdrawals from my checking account. How identity thieves used my personal information to trick the bank, I’ll never know.”
Let’s face it: It’s hard NOT to shop around for better financing on the Internet, especially with all the pop-up ads promising great rates and ease of processing.
As you continue to shop on the Internet, do so with your “eyes open” to the possibility of identity theft, and consider protecting yourself with IDENTITY GUARD® services.
What you do... |
What you need to know... |
I’m cautious, but I don’t really worry too much since my credit score won’t be affected if a mistake is uncovered and corrected |
Eventually! But correcting the error in your “City Hall” within the bureaucracy can take months. But until then, you may have a criminal record, be denied credit and have great difficulty changing health insurance providers. Why take the risk, even for a moment? |
I’m not responsible for fraudulent charges if thieves steal my identity when I’m shopping on the Internet. Most banks have insurance that covers me for the risk. |
Also true, eventually. But why risk placing your life on hold until it’s all straightened out, which could take months or longer. Can you imagine life, even temporarily, without credit cards, cell phones or access to the Internet? Or worse, a criminal record? |
We hear this a lot: “Identity theft victims are usually careless with their information. I’m cautious, therefore, I’m not at risk.” |
Unfortunately, caution does not equal security. You’d be amazed at how many “careful” people have their lives change as victims of identity theft. |