Identity Thieves Want to Live YOUR Best Life
Tom warned his dad he should be careful about shredding documents and mail, including junk mail, to protect his identity. He also told his dad to make sure to destroy the labels and barcodes on his prescription medication bottles before throwing them away. But Tom's dad didn't listen, and Tom decided to teach his dad a lesson during Thanksgiving dinner with the family.
"Hey dad, I found out you're taking six different medications for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, ulcers, and that you recently refilled your prescription for Via---," Tommy announced to everyone at the table.
"WHAT?? How did you get that information? And what are you doing announcing it to everyone??" Tom's dad was furious. And embarrassed as a few giggles were muffled.
"Simple. I saw your prescription bottles in the trash, and I used this app on my phone to scan the bar code and get all your private information, including which drugs you're taking. I told you that identity thieves are working hard to live a better life – by stealing your name and personal information!" Tommy explained. |
This is a real scenario, shared by someone who was a victim of identity theft, and made it his mission to tell friends, family, and others how to protect themselves. Quite simply, you must destroy all personal identifying information and the bar code information on every label, envelope, or document. Like bar codes on products in stores, they contain important information about you that shouldn't be in the wrong hands.
If you suspect you're a victim of identity theft, you should immediately visit www.IdentityTheft.gov to report it. You can go online or call the 3 credit agencies to report fraud and/or put a fraud alert on your accounts:
1-888-397-3742 • www.transunion.com/fraud-alerts 1-800-680-7289 • www.Equifax.com/CreditReportAssistance 1-888-766-0008 |
By Kim Ruiz, Expressly Written, LLC
Jessica Robinson
Jessica is the Marketing Coordinator at Eaton Realty. Prior to joining the Eaton team, Jessica held previous roles managing properties in North Carolina and working as a licensed realtor in California. With over a decade of real estate experience, Jessica shares her real estate and property management knowledge across the Eaton blog, social channels, and newsletter. You can find her on LinkedIn.
Questions? Speak With A Real Estate Expert
Services We Offer
FEATURED ARTICLES
What To Do When Your Property Manager Ignores You
Read full articleIs Buying A Condo In Florida A Good Investment? Pros & Cons
Read full articleWhat Is The Average Time To Sell A House In Florida?
Read full articleTampa vs Chicago: Which Is Better To Live In?
Read full article