Identity Theft Consumer Tips and Info

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​​Child Identity Protection
Minors make ideal targets for identity thieves because they have a clean credit history and the crime could go undetected for years.
​​Child Online Privacy
As a parent, you have control of the personal information companies collect online from your children under the age of 13.

Before donating, selling or discarding your old computer, remove all personal ​data from the hard drive to prevent identity theft.
We use computers for everything. So what do you do when your computer is hacked? There are a few simple but very important steps.
Passwords are your first line of defense against cyber criminals while conducting online transactions or simply browsing the internet.

Wisconsin consumers have the right to place a security freeze on their credit reports. A security freeze can help protect from identity theft.
​​You just found out from the news or a notification letter that your personal information was part of a data breach. What should you do?
You have a right to receive copies of documents relating to fraudulent transactions made or accounts opened using your information.

​The Wisconsin Department of Revenue assists victims of fraudulent tax returns, but there are a few steps any victim should take.
Federal law requires nationwide consumer reporting companies to give you one free copy of your credit report per year upon request.
Most people unknowingly share a great deal of information about their exact location by simply posting 'geotagged' photos online.


Are you looking to limit your identity theft risks? This is an excellent one-stop resource for beginning your research.
Identity Theft Protection Services
There are many businesses that now offer credit report monitoring services, identity theft protection, and identity theft insurance.
There are many ways to protect your personal information. Learn the best methods for keeping your data and devices secure.

Imposters are everywhere! Calls, texts, emails, physical mail, and online ads are all​​ used by scammers who are not what they seem​.
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When someone uses your private information to make fraudulent claims for medical goods or services, identity theft has occurred.
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When scammers 'bait' you into giving up your personal information, they are "phishing" you. There are numerous forms of phishing.

Privacy notices explain what personal information a company collects; what will be done with it; and how you can limit it.

Social networking websites are a place for internet users to come together. As these sites grow in popularity, so do their risks.
​​​Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in the country. What you do now to protect your identity may affect your life for many years.
​​Student Tips to Prevent Identity Theft
The internet is a part of our everyday lives. While it makes communication easier, it also increases the risk of identity theft.
Tax-related identity theft means your Social Security number was compromised. How can you notice it, and how can you prevent it?
Phishers use clever SMS text messages to trick you into giving them your personal information. This is known as "smishing."

Vacations are a prime opportunity for identity thieves, and your risk of fraud and identity theft may increase when you travel.

There are a number of useful steps that identity theft victims can take to help clear their records and reclaim their identities.

Most wallets contain personal information that would allow a thief to easily steal your identity, but you can minimize your risk.
Wi-Fi is a radio wave-based technology that allows devices to wirelessly connect to the internet, but not all networks are secure.
Wisconsin's Data Breach Notification Law
State law requires most businesses to notify individuals if an unauthorized person accesses their information.​​
Social Security numbers were not originally meant to be used as a general identifier. Thieves steal them to set up fraudulent accounts.