Identity Theft

In 2010, approximately 8.1 million Americans learned that they were victims of identity theft. This type of fraud is difficult to detect and resolve, which results in a high consumer cost rate. In fact, in 2010, mean consumer costs were at $631, which is the highest level since 2007.

What exactly is identity theft? Identity theft occurs when your personal information is used to open unauthorized credit cards or loans, establish phone/other utility services, open bank accounts, create counterfeit checks or obtain employment.

Although this news is alarming for many, there are steps you can take to prevent yourself from becoming a victim.

10 Steps to Avoid Identity Theft

1. Create passwords for all your credit, bank and phone accounts. Do not use obvious things such as your address, birth date, Social Security number or any portion of your name.
2. Change your passwords every 90 days.
3. Be sure to verify the source you are providing your personal information to, especially if you are giving it over the phone. Make sure they can be trusted, and find out how your information will be used.
4. Limit the number of credit cards you carry.
5. Leave your Social Security card in a safe place at home.
6. Shred your bills after paying them so “dumpster divers” cannot access your account numbers.
7. Follow up with creditors promptly if your bills do not arrive on time.
8. Regularly check your credit report for unauthorized activity. New legislation permits consumers to obtain one free credit report per year from each of the three major credit bureaus. Visit www.annualcreditreport.com or call 877–322–8228 toll free for more information.
9. Make copies, front and back, of important information in your wallet (such as credit cards and your driver’s license), and keep the copies in a secure location.
10. If you think you are a victim of identity theft, visit the FTC web site at www.consumer.gov/idtheft and contact your attorney to determine what actions you should take.

Your Legal Plan Can Help

Having fast and convenient access to an attorney is essential if you think you have been a victim of identity theft. Find out how you take advantage of these important group legal plan services and other employee benefits services.

• If your employer offers a Hyatt legal plan, click here to learn more about coverage available when you enroll. (Your employer can provide the password needed to access this site.) If you are unsure whether your employer offers a Hyatt legal plan, please contact your benefits or HR department to find out.

• If you are a legal plan member, access your plan to review coverage.

• You may also call the Client Service Center at 800-821-6400 for more information on covered services.

Please note: Some matters, including employment-related matters, are excluded. View terms of service.

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This article is intended to provide you with general information. This article is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, legal advice. If you require legal advice, please consult with your own attorney.