Protecting Against Identity Theft Is More Difficult In Cyberspace

By U.S. Rep. Bart Gordon

Like many consumers, I was alarmed by the news reports of online thieves stealing millions of credit card account numbers.

I was affected by the security breach, and I know firsthand the troubling feelings that come from not knowing who might have my personal information.

Experts often talk about ways to protect against identity theft, and savvy consumers heed their advice. But more needs to be done to ensure that the sensitive information on these electronic databases remains secure.

Some of my colleagues who serve with me on the Energy and Commerce Committee have drafted bipartisan legislation that calls for tougher security guidelines for electronic credit card databases. The draft legislation requires that companies develop and maintain policies regarding sensitive account information. In the event of a security breach, the companies would be required in a timely manner to send written and electronic notices to all affected consumers.

It can take years to repair the damage caused by identity theft. That’s why consumers must guard their credit card and bank account numbers, Social Security numbers, and passwords.

The Federal Trade Commission, which oversees consumer protection, makes the following recommendations to help protect your identity:

• Don’t give out your personal information on the phone, through the mail or over the Internet unless you initiated the correspondence. If you get a call, letter or e-mail asking for personal information, take a moment to verify the organization by calling the customer service number listed on your statement or bill.

• When possible, use passwords to protect your accounts. Use something other than your birthday or the last four digits of your Social Security number or phone number.

• Minimize what you carry in your wallet. Don’t carry your Social Security card or unnecessary credit cards; keep them in a safe place.

• Opt out of having your Social Security number printed on your driver’s license. Don’t print your driver’s license number on your checks.

• Shred or tear any personal documents before discarding them.

Thanks to the Fair Credit Reporting Act, Tennesseans now can request free copies of their credit reports every twelve months by visiting www.annualcreditreport.com or by calling 877-322-8228. You should monitor your report carefully for any suspicious activity, such as accounts you did not open. If you have accounts open that you no longer use, make sure to close the accounts.

If you think you are the victim of identity theft, or if you would like more information about ordering credit reports, visit www.ftc.gov or call 1-877-ID-THEFT.