Identity Theft
Protect yourself and your good name
 

Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in Canada, and its effects can be devastating.

Fortunately, there are simple and easy ways you can protect yourself and your identity.

Common scams to watch out for include:

• Postal theft: Cons can easily get their hands on personal information by stealing your personal mail.
• Pre-approved credit card applications: They can be filled out by anyone and returned to another address relatively easily.
• Dumpster-diving: Any personal document you throw out can be used to steal your identity.
• Online "phishing" scams: Cons send out fraudulent emails requesting personal information. They may look like they're from your financial institution.
  
  

  How you can protect yourself

• Reputable companies won't ask for your personal information via email. When in doubt, call them directly and inquire about their email request.
• Pay close attention to your billing cycle and follow-up immediately if you notice any irregularities.
• Consider cancelling credit cards you do not use on a regular basis.
• Purchase a personal shredder for your home and use it before disposing of any personal information.
• If you are a victim of identity theft, report the crime to your local authorities immediately and cancel all your credit cards. You should also advise all companies you pay bills to as well as the credit bureaus and ask them to amend your file to reflect the fact that you have been a victim of fraud.

Looking for more protection? MY NAME™ Identity Theft Assistance Plus  offers assistance and reimbursement of expenses if you are a victim of identity theft.