Identity theft is the stealing of personal information to help an individual pretend to be someone else. With the information, be it social security number or driver license, the criminal can gain access to people's credit, merchandise, services and other benefits. Becoming a victim to identity theft can be both stressful and traumatic.

Ways to avoid identity theft.

Plain and simple "PROTECT YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION."

-Don't keep all your information in one place.
-Don't write down your PIN anywhere for any of your cards or web access.
-Always deal with a "secure socket layer" protected website when doing any personal business online. Protected addresses should have a https:// begging and not http://.
- Don't give out your personal information or PIN in any emails or snail mail.
- Don't give out any information at all that you use as details for security verification. Such as mother's maiden name, pet, favorite food etc.

How to find out more.

PhoneBusters - visit www.phonebusters.com or toll free 1-888-495-8501

Diebold - ATM safety Visit www.atmcomsumersafety.com

The Seniors' Resource Centre - visit www.seniorsresource.ca

More info on Identity Theft - crcvc.ca/docs/Identity_Theft.pdf

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