By Crystal Baldwin When I presented on the topic of identity theft a decade ago, the concept seemed somewhat distant, impacting few individuals with identity thieves using dated and laborious tactics to steal identities. A section of my presentation was devoted to informing about dumpster diving—the fact that people can get a lot of information about… Continue reading Identity Theft and Phishing
Tag: identity theft
Social Security Number Phishing Scams
Since August 1, the Consumer Assistance Program has received approximately 275 reports of the Social Security number phishing scam! Here’s how the scam works: You receive a phone call stating that there has been criminal or fraudulent activity involving your Social Security number. The scammer may also claim to be a government agency or law… Continue reading Social Security Number Phishing Scams
Credit 101
Credit can be a confusing concept. CAP wants to make it simple for you! This post is a guide to credit, credit bureaus, credit reports and more. What is credit? Your “credit” refers to your ability to borrow money and how much you can borrow. Your “credit score” is determined by your credit history, and… Continue reading Credit 101
Together, We Can Eliminate Elder Abuse
“Nationally, of the 60+ age cohort, 1 in 10 adults experience some form of mistreatment each year.”[1] National Center on Elder Abuse “For every case of reported elder abuse, neglect or exploitation, about 23 instances go unreported.”[2] VT Attorney General’s Office and the Department of Aging and Independent Living Elder abuse occurs in many forms:… Continue reading Together, We Can Eliminate Elder Abuse
Protect Your Credit: Get a Free Freeze
Under the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief and Consumer Protection Act, credit freezes are free of charge to anybody, regardless of whether or not they are victims of identity theft. This new law requires credit-reporting agencies to eliminate the cost of credit freezes, credit unfreezes (thaws) and yearlong fraud alerts to consumers. Website Required: The three… Continue reading Protect Your Credit: Get a Free Freeze