2022: Identity Theft
3 hours General CE credits
Instructor: Mike Fergen, MSM, CPCU, CLU, Karen Fergen, CLU
Summary/Objective
Identity Theft is a growing challenge for all consumers. Understanding the trends and data is critical in this age of digital information. The Federal Trade Commission provides some helpful tips, advice, and suggestions for taking action if your identity has been compromised. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is a new government agency that was born during the last crisis in 2008/2009. This watchdog group provides consumers tools and tips to deal with scams, identity theft, and fraud. Finally, the Fair Credit Reporting Act is also a government act that provides tools to help consumers when their credit information has been breached.
Knowing the warning signs of when your identity has been stolen and then what to do if it has been stolen are needed resources for consumers. Sometimes a person becomes aware of some clues or red flags that your identity and information are in the hands of a thief. Finally, if you are a victim, it is important to know what to do right away in order to diminish the harm and damage to your identity. What agencies to work within reporting the loss along with the key information they will need to assist you in the investigation is important to know and understand.
Maintaining an accurate credit rating is a necessity in this digital world. When was the last time you used your credit card, ATM, Paypal, or other sources of paying online? Your accounts must be accurate and can’t be compromised. If they are compromised, they could negatively affect your current credit rating or even affect your ability to borrow in the future as a result of this incorrect or inaccurate information. Understanding Credit Score Protection, Credit Monitoring Tools, or how to Freeze your credit as a result of a breach are systematic ways to manage and protect your credit score.
The final area of the course we will explore will be how to protect yourself with proper passwords, social media sites, Facebook entries, Phishing, Tax Fraud, and Medical ID fraud. Family digital tips will assist you with how to navigate in this digital world. Cases, breaches, and scams will be shared with you on what could and has happened to consumers. Awareness of the potential challenges is an effective way to keep you safe.