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Consumer Fraud – Identity Theft Tips
Identity theft in the U.S. is an epidemic that is not going to diminish until there are new privacy laws and better safeguards for consumer records.The following are some safeguards that many professionals believe should be put in place to protect people from consumer fraud:
•Every business that furnishes data should be required to send free notification to the consumer when releasing a consumer's private records to any third party. This would provide consumers with a chance to protect themselves if they discover a criminal breach of their privacy.
•The data-furnishing companies and agents should keep on file for 10 years any records that include the consumers' names and information released and accessed by a third party.
Many times law enforcement agencies struggle to battle identity theft crimes, only to find no evidence is left. When law enforcement agencies issue search warrants and subpoenas, the information required to prosecute these cases is no longer on file or available. Without the evidence, there is no case.
It is important that consumers seek better safeguards and privacy protection in the Legislature. It also is important for consumers to continue to diligently safeguard their private records and information.
If you have been a victim of identity theft, take the following actions as soon as possible:
•Immediately file a police report.
•Contact all known creditors.
•Contact the three national credit reporting agencies and your bank.
•Keep copies of any records related to the crime.
•Document any telephone calls and correspondence related to the identity theft or fraud.