Jun
30
Id Theft and Identity Theft Prevention
Filed Under Credit | Leave a Comment
S. Michael Windsor asked:
ID Theft and Identity Theft Prevention
Identity theft affects over 9 million Americans alone each year. As the degree of damage varies from individual to individual, the lasting effects are nearly the same. ID theft ultimately affects your credit score. And in many cases ID theft can cause major damage without the victim even realizing it at first. Identity theft can occur simply by a ID thief obtaining a person’s identifying information such as their name, Social Security numbers, credit care and other account numbers and more.
There are many ways thief can use a person’s identity and not just so they can steal money and buy home theater systems or take lavish vacations, like the recent college-aged thieves caught after years of stealing credit to finance expensive vacations, but many will even steal such information for paying their own rent, telephone bill or even checking out books at the public library.
There are many ways in which an identity thief can obtain your information. Many of the methods used more frequently include going through your trash, going through your mail and stealing a credit card statement in order to obtain your credit card number, email scams, stealing purses and wallets, and even an employee at a restaurant or store jotting down your credit card number as they are running your card.
These events and more can really damage a person’s credit report and overall score which could take a while just to get back in order.
So how can a person protect themselves from identity theft? The most effective way to combat identity theft is to check your billing statements regularly as well as monitor your credit report regularly. Monitoring ones credit does not have to occur daily. But, if done on a monthly basis, one can see any discrepancies on their credit report soon after a potential identity theft occurrence appears on their credit report or billing statement.
Despite the fact that the ID theft occurrence may not be entirely the credit holder’s fault, the lasting effects become that victim’s responsibility to discover and fix. However, there are now services that provide identity theft protection which can be found in more detail at our site. These services can help you keep a close eye on your credit and all identifying information and help prevent identity theft overall.
Kathryn
ID Theft and Identity Theft Prevention
Identity theft affects over 9 million Americans alone each year. As the degree of damage varies from individual to individual, the lasting effects are nearly the same. ID theft ultimately affects your credit score. And in many cases ID theft can cause major damage without the victim even realizing it at first. Identity theft can occur simply by a ID thief obtaining a person’s identifying information such as their name, Social Security numbers, credit care and other account numbers and more.
There are many ways thief can use a person’s identity and not just so they can steal money and buy home theater systems or take lavish vacations, like the recent college-aged thieves caught after years of stealing credit to finance expensive vacations, but many will even steal such information for paying their own rent, telephone bill or even checking out books at the public library.
There are many ways in which an identity thief can obtain your information. Many of the methods used more frequently include going through your trash, going through your mail and stealing a credit card statement in order to obtain your credit card number, email scams, stealing purses and wallets, and even an employee at a restaurant or store jotting down your credit card number as they are running your card.
These events and more can really damage a person’s credit report and overall score which could take a while just to get back in order.
So how can a person protect themselves from identity theft? The most effective way to combat identity theft is to check your billing statements regularly as well as monitor your credit report regularly. Monitoring ones credit does not have to occur daily. But, if done on a monthly basis, one can see any discrepancies on their credit report soon after a potential identity theft occurrence appears on their credit report or billing statement.
Despite the fact that the ID theft occurrence may not be entirely the credit holder’s fault, the lasting effects become that victim’s responsibility to discover and fix. However, there are now services that provide identity theft protection which can be found in more detail at our site. These services can help you keep a close eye on your credit and all identifying information and help prevent identity theft overall.
Kathryn
Jun
28
IDENTITY THEFT PROTECTION
Filed Under Presentation | Leave a Comment
Luis Marques asked:
THEFT PROTECTION
Top of Form
Bottom of Form
Identity theft has been defined as ‘the process of using someone else’s personal information for ones own personal gain’. Researchers have been studying identity theft closely since 2004 and release a yearly ‘findings’ report. Their 2009 study reveals that:
· Identity theft is on the rise, affecting almost 10 million victims in 2008 (a 22% increase from 2007)
· Victims are spending less money out of pocket to correct the damage from ID theft. The mean cost per victim is $500, and most victims pay nothing due to zero-liability fraud protection programs offered by their financial institutions.
· 71% of fraud happens within a week of stealing a victim’s personal data.
· Low-tech methods for stealing personal information are still the most popular for identity thieves. Stolen wallets and physical documents accounted for 43% of all identity theft, while online methods accounted for only 11%.
Anyone can become a victim of Identity Theft. It can take just seconds to occur and could take months or years to correct. So, what does all this data translate to for you and me? It means that we need to invest in an Identity Theft Protection program. Pre-Paid Legal\’s Identity Theft ShieldSM is an affordable solution. Your Identity Theft Protection membership will first provide an up-to-date Experian credit report. This report will be reviewed and analyzed to see if any suspicious has already occurred. From that point on your credit is monitored. You will be alerted if new activity is added to your credit report. If the activity is not initiated by you, it can point to identity theft.
Your coverage begins as soon as your application is completed. The application process takes just a few minutes to complete, and the Identity Theft Protection program really doesn’t cost that much. Especially considering what you are protecting. Everyone needs protection from identity theft. It doesn’t matter who you are, where you live or what your profession is, everyone is at risk for identity theft. Even your minor children are at risk for this devastating and financially debilitation crime. So PrePaid Legal.com even has program for minor children called SAFEGUARD For Minors.
To take your first step in protecting your future credit and to start the identity theft protection, visit the website www.prepaidlegal.com/info/luismarques. Then click on the Identity Theft Shield link. There you will find all the information you will need to determine which program is best suited for your Identity Theft Protection needs.
For more information on Identity Theft Protection, please visit www.prepaidlegal.com/info/luismarques
Helen
THEFT PROTECTION
Top of Form
Bottom of Form
Identity theft has been defined as ‘the process of using someone else’s personal information for ones own personal gain’. Researchers have been studying identity theft closely since 2004 and release a yearly ‘findings’ report. Their 2009 study reveals that:
· Identity theft is on the rise, affecting almost 10 million victims in 2008 (a 22% increase from 2007)
· Victims are spending less money out of pocket to correct the damage from ID theft. The mean cost per victim is $500, and most victims pay nothing due to zero-liability fraud protection programs offered by their financial institutions.
· 71% of fraud happens within a week of stealing a victim’s personal data.
· Low-tech methods for stealing personal information are still the most popular for identity thieves. Stolen wallets and physical documents accounted for 43% of all identity theft, while online methods accounted for only 11%.
Anyone can become a victim of Identity Theft. It can take just seconds to occur and could take months or years to correct. So, what does all this data translate to for you and me? It means that we need to invest in an Identity Theft Protection program. Pre-Paid Legal\’s Identity Theft ShieldSM is an affordable solution. Your Identity Theft Protection membership will first provide an up-to-date Experian credit report. This report will be reviewed and analyzed to see if any suspicious has already occurred. From that point on your credit is monitored. You will be alerted if new activity is added to your credit report. If the activity is not initiated by you, it can point to identity theft.
Your coverage begins as soon as your application is completed. The application process takes just a few minutes to complete, and the Identity Theft Protection program really doesn’t cost that much. Especially considering what you are protecting. Everyone needs protection from identity theft. It doesn’t matter who you are, where you live or what your profession is, everyone is at risk for identity theft. Even your minor children are at risk for this devastating and financially debilitation crime. So PrePaid Legal.com even has program for minor children called SAFEGUARD For Minors.
To take your first step in protecting your future credit and to start the identity theft protection, visit the website www.prepaidlegal.com/info/luismarques. Then click on the Identity Theft Shield link. There you will find all the information you will need to determine which program is best suited for your Identity Theft Protection needs.
For more information on Identity Theft Protection, please visit www.prepaidlegal.com/info/luismarques
Helen
Jun
27
Identity Theft – what is it and how can it be avoided?
Filed Under Personal Finance | Leave a Comment
Sam Gooch asked:
Identity theft is a definite threat to us all, effecting hundreds of people everyday across the globe. There are insurance policies that can be taken out in order to cover yourself against ID theft, but this may not be necessary, as there are a number of measures you can take to help you to avoid becoming a victim, most of which rely on simple common sense.
ID theft is a technique used by criminals allowing them to benefit financially through claiming they are you, for example taking out loans, applying for credit cards etc. all in your name.
One of the issues in tackling this type of fraud is that the police have limited resources, especially as a large number of these criminals are not even in this country.
Doing all you can to avoid becoming a victim of ID theft is easier than you may think and being aware of the following points could save you a lot of grief.
1. Ensure that all of your important documents and financial related documents are stored in a safe place out of sight. These include official documents such as passports and driving licence documents, as well as financial documents such as bank and credit card statements, bank account details, insurance documents etc.
2. Frequently monitor your bank accounts and credit card statements to ensure there are no suspicious transactions. If possible, set up internet banking for all banking products as this will allow you to regularly check statements without having to wait for your monthly statements. Online banking is also very secure, with many banks now providing customers with card readers which generate pass codes that must be used when logging in to your account, or making a payment. If you do notice anything that looks suspicious, contact your bank or credit card provider immediately.
3. Buy a paper shredder. You can pick one up from £5 to £30 and you can use it to shred any official documents that you don’t need to keep. This includes the obvious such as bank statements, but also any loan or credit card application forms, and even junk mail that has any of your details i.e. name, address, telephone number etc. Simply throwing these documents away could result in them falling into the wrong hands.
4. Make sure you are aware of when your regular financial documents arrive, ensuring you are aware of anything out of the ordinary, for example you haven’t received your credit card bill for 7 weeks.
5. At least once a year, apply for a copy of your credit file to check all current finance arrangements in your name, allowing you to spot anything unusual.
6. Never give out sensitive information over the phone unless it was you that made the call or are 100% sure that the call is legitimate. For example, you receive a call from somebody claiming to be your bank asking for details such as your full name, DOB and Mother’s maiden name. These are types of information that fraudsters will want to get hold of, so be vigilant.
7. Never trust emails claiming to be your bank or Credit Card company. Some of these emails can look extremely convincing and the irony is that many of them claim to require your details to help tackle fraud. You can usually spot these emails as the URL that you are required to click may appear to be the official site, but on closer inspection you will see it is in fact close, by hovering your cursor over this link. You will then be re-directed to a spoof page that looks genuine but is actually used to steal your login details.
8. When moving house, subscribe The Royal Mail’s redirection service. This will ensure all mail addressed to you ends up with you.
9. Check your bills as soon as they arrive in the post. If there’s anything suspicious contact your bank or Credit Card company immediately.
There are a few main techniques employed by criminals to carry out ID theft. These include:
Bin Diving
Going through your bins searching for bills or other documents containing your personal information.
Skimming
Used to steal credit/debit card numbers using a special storage device. This can be avoided by keeping your card on you or in view when making payments.
Phishing
Claiming to be a legitimate financial institution to gain your trust then push you to reveal your personal information.
Changing Your Address
Diverting your bills, statements and other sensitive documents to another address by filling out a change of address form.
Old-Fashioned Stealing
Stealing wallets; mail etc. to get enough information about you.
Pretexting
Used to obtain personal information from a number of sources such as financial institutions, telephone companies, and other sources by impersonating you
Once an identity thief has successfully acquired your personal information, they can use it for a number of different things.
Credit card fraud:
* A new credit card can be applied for in your name. The card can then be used to get credit and all unpaid bills will appear on your credit report, damaging your credit history.
* By changing your address, they could run up charges on your account but you will be unaware as you are not getting the bills. It could be some time before you notice anything unusual.
Phone or utilities fraud:
* A new phone or wireless account could be opened in your name, or even utility services like electricity, water, or satellite television.
Bank fraud:
* Counterfeit checks made with your details.
* Bank accounts opened in your name.
* Credit or debit card cloned allowing them to use your cards.
* A loan taken out in your name.
Government documents fraud:
* Used to get official ID cards such as a driving licence under your name but with their picture.
* Use of your details to get government benefits.
* Fraudulent tax return made using your information.
Other fraud:
* Qualify for a job using your personal information
* Rent a property in your name.
These days, most banks have intelligent anti-fraud systems that recognise any unusual activity on your card, for example you withdraw money from a cash point in the UK and later that day money is withdrawn from an ATM in Canada.
When taking out a credit card, you will probably find that you are offered some kind of anti-theft insurance to protect you against fraud. But the fact is that ID theft is heavily promoted and sometimes over exaggerated to help sell the product.
According to a spokesman from the UK’s fraud Prevention Service – the CIFAS, ID theft is still a relatively rare crime, but it is on the increase.
So as long as you’re cautious with who you give your personal information to, keeping it in a safe place, shred all unwanted documents containing your information, you should remain safe from fraud.
Pauline
Identity theft is a definite threat to us all, effecting hundreds of people everyday across the globe. There are insurance policies that can be taken out in order to cover yourself against ID theft, but this may not be necessary, as there are a number of measures you can take to help you to avoid becoming a victim, most of which rely on simple common sense.
ID theft is a technique used by criminals allowing them to benefit financially through claiming they are you, for example taking out loans, applying for credit cards etc. all in your name.
One of the issues in tackling this type of fraud is that the police have limited resources, especially as a large number of these criminals are not even in this country.
Doing all you can to avoid becoming a victim of ID theft is easier than you may think and being aware of the following points could save you a lot of grief.
1. Ensure that all of your important documents and financial related documents are stored in a safe place out of sight. These include official documents such as passports and driving licence documents, as well as financial documents such as bank and credit card statements, bank account details, insurance documents etc.
2. Frequently monitor your bank accounts and credit card statements to ensure there are no suspicious transactions. If possible, set up internet banking for all banking products as this will allow you to regularly check statements without having to wait for your monthly statements. Online banking is also very secure, with many banks now providing customers with card readers which generate pass codes that must be used when logging in to your account, or making a payment. If you do notice anything that looks suspicious, contact your bank or credit card provider immediately.
3. Buy a paper shredder. You can pick one up from £5 to £30 and you can use it to shred any official documents that you don’t need to keep. This includes the obvious such as bank statements, but also any loan or credit card application forms, and even junk mail that has any of your details i.e. name, address, telephone number etc. Simply throwing these documents away could result in them falling into the wrong hands.
4. Make sure you are aware of when your regular financial documents arrive, ensuring you are aware of anything out of the ordinary, for example you haven’t received your credit card bill for 7 weeks.
5. At least once a year, apply for a copy of your credit file to check all current finance arrangements in your name, allowing you to spot anything unusual.
6. Never give out sensitive information over the phone unless it was you that made the call or are 100% sure that the call is legitimate. For example, you receive a call from somebody claiming to be your bank asking for details such as your full name, DOB and Mother’s maiden name. These are types of information that fraudsters will want to get hold of, so be vigilant.
7. Never trust emails claiming to be your bank or Credit Card company. Some of these emails can look extremely convincing and the irony is that many of them claim to require your details to help tackle fraud. You can usually spot these emails as the URL that you are required to click may appear to be the official site, but on closer inspection you will see it is in fact close, by hovering your cursor over this link. You will then be re-directed to a spoof page that looks genuine but is actually used to steal your login details.
8. When moving house, subscribe The Royal Mail’s redirection service. This will ensure all mail addressed to you ends up with you.
9. Check your bills as soon as they arrive in the post. If there’s anything suspicious contact your bank or Credit Card company immediately.
There are a few main techniques employed by criminals to carry out ID theft. These include:
Bin Diving
Going through your bins searching for bills or other documents containing your personal information.
Skimming
Used to steal credit/debit card numbers using a special storage device. This can be avoided by keeping your card on you or in view when making payments.
Phishing
Claiming to be a legitimate financial institution to gain your trust then push you to reveal your personal information.
Changing Your Address
Diverting your bills, statements and other sensitive documents to another address by filling out a change of address form.
Old-Fashioned Stealing
Stealing wallets; mail etc. to get enough information about you.
Pretexting
Used to obtain personal information from a number of sources such as financial institutions, telephone companies, and other sources by impersonating you
Once an identity thief has successfully acquired your personal information, they can use it for a number of different things.
Credit card fraud:
* A new credit card can be applied for in your name. The card can then be used to get credit and all unpaid bills will appear on your credit report, damaging your credit history.
* By changing your address, they could run up charges on your account but you will be unaware as you are not getting the bills. It could be some time before you notice anything unusual.
Phone or utilities fraud:
* A new phone or wireless account could be opened in your name, or even utility services like electricity, water, or satellite television.
Bank fraud:
* Counterfeit checks made with your details.
* Bank accounts opened in your name.
* Credit or debit card cloned allowing them to use your cards.
* A loan taken out in your name.
Government documents fraud:
* Used to get official ID cards such as a driving licence under your name but with their picture.
* Use of your details to get government benefits.
* Fraudulent tax return made using your information.
Other fraud:
* Qualify for a job using your personal information
* Rent a property in your name.
These days, most banks have intelligent anti-fraud systems that recognise any unusual activity on your card, for example you withdraw money from a cash point in the UK and later that day money is withdrawn from an ATM in Canada.
When taking out a credit card, you will probably find that you are offered some kind of anti-theft insurance to protect you against fraud. But the fact is that ID theft is heavily promoted and sometimes over exaggerated to help sell the product.
According to a spokesman from the UK’s fraud Prevention Service – the CIFAS, ID theft is still a relatively rare crime, but it is on the increase.
So as long as you’re cautious with who you give your personal information to, keeping it in a safe place, shred all unwanted documents containing your information, you should remain safe from fraud.
Pauline
Jun
27
Abhishek Agarwal asked:
Have you ever felt pity for those who have suffered from the effects of identity theft? Should you be in their same situation suffering from identity theft, your life may be like theirs and you would understand and feel pity. It is this reason here that laws were passed to detour this continuous threat of security to everyone in the country including business and individuals.
Consumers’ awareness to this threat has finally peaked within the last five to ten years. Largely due to the media attention it has gotten, people are more aware of when they give out their personal data and especially when it is given out without their consent, such is the case on the Internet.
With the widespread attention and public outcry, federal and state legislation have been brought up regarding Identity theft issues.
ID Theft and Assumption Law
On the federal level, the Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act (18 USC 1028) was passed in 1998. When the law passed, it made any type of identity theft a felony. The law states that if a person knowingly uses the identification of another person with the sole purpose to commit some type of unlawful crime under both the state and federal laws.
Those who, in turn, violated this law, were put under close supervision by several federal agencies including:
- U.S. Secret Service
- the Social Security Administration
- the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI)
- the U.S Postal Service
Criminals were then prosecuted by:
- the U.S. Department of Justice.
The law does allow for victims to be reimbursed. This reimbursement was established within the Federal Trade Commission as an identity theft clearinghouse.
Following on the federal law’s heels, 40 states have criminalized identity theft, most of them being a felony.
Senate Bill 2328 called the Identity Theft Prevention Act of 2000 signed by Sen. Feinstein, Kyl and Grassley. They wanted more attention to direct on prevention matters before theft occurs. They wanted also to find out where the prevention should be taken and where the preventions should belong.
President George W. Bush signed the Identity Theft Penalty Enhancement Act or ITPEA as an addition to many of these laws.
What are the provisions of this identity theft law?
When a theft is found to have occurred, it is made a felony with a mandatory two-year sentence in prison. Should any of the theft be related to terrorist activity, there will be an additional five years tacked on.
It also orders the U.S. Sentencing Commission to strengthen its penalties should the theft be found in the role regarding employment.
Many people are happy that identity theft is now being prosecuted but still say the credit bureaus and the industry itself has to make necessary changes before all is said and done.
Laws were also needing to address the frustration that victims felt and a way to for them to let others know they have criminal record that is not theirs.
Some bills that were passed include a provision, which made it possible for people to get contents regarding their own information that has been put together by information broker, employment background checks and an individual reference service.
For those who had criminal records that is not of their own doing, there must be a way for those people to clear it up an expedited process. These would involve the law enforcement where the arrest was first made and the court issues the warrant. Currently, there is no such remedy for victims of identity theft with criminal records
Bryan
Have you ever felt pity for those who have suffered from the effects of identity theft? Should you be in their same situation suffering from identity theft, your life may be like theirs and you would understand and feel pity. It is this reason here that laws were passed to detour this continuous threat of security to everyone in the country including business and individuals.
Consumers’ awareness to this threat has finally peaked within the last five to ten years. Largely due to the media attention it has gotten, people are more aware of when they give out their personal data and especially when it is given out without their consent, such is the case on the Internet.
With the widespread attention and public outcry, federal and state legislation have been brought up regarding Identity theft issues.
ID Theft and Assumption Law
On the federal level, the Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act (18 USC 1028) was passed in 1998. When the law passed, it made any type of identity theft a felony. The law states that if a person knowingly uses the identification of another person with the sole purpose to commit some type of unlawful crime under both the state and federal laws.
Those who, in turn, violated this law, were put under close supervision by several federal agencies including:
- U.S. Secret Service
- the Social Security Administration
- the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI)
- the U.S Postal Service
Criminals were then prosecuted by:
- the U.S. Department of Justice.
The law does allow for victims to be reimbursed. This reimbursement was established within the Federal Trade Commission as an identity theft clearinghouse.
Following on the federal law’s heels, 40 states have criminalized identity theft, most of them being a felony.
Senate Bill 2328 called the Identity Theft Prevention Act of 2000 signed by Sen. Feinstein, Kyl and Grassley. They wanted more attention to direct on prevention matters before theft occurs. They wanted also to find out where the prevention should be taken and where the preventions should belong.
President George W. Bush signed the Identity Theft Penalty Enhancement Act or ITPEA as an addition to many of these laws.
What are the provisions of this identity theft law?
When a theft is found to have occurred, it is made a felony with a mandatory two-year sentence in prison. Should any of the theft be related to terrorist activity, there will be an additional five years tacked on.
It also orders the U.S. Sentencing Commission to strengthen its penalties should the theft be found in the role regarding employment.
Many people are happy that identity theft is now being prosecuted but still say the credit bureaus and the industry itself has to make necessary changes before all is said and done.
Laws were also needing to address the frustration that victims felt and a way to for them to let others know they have criminal record that is not theirs.
Some bills that were passed include a provision, which made it possible for people to get contents regarding their own information that has been put together by information broker, employment background checks and an individual reference service.
For those who had criminal records that is not of their own doing, there must be a way for those people to clear it up an expedited process. These would involve the law enforcement where the arrest was first made and the court issues the warrant. Currently, there is no such remedy for victims of identity theft with criminal records
Bryan
Jun
26
How to Report Identity Theft
Filed Under Finance | Leave a Comment
Joe Farinaccio asked:
ce departments don’t want to deal with identity theft. So one of the first things you’re faced with as a victim of fraud is, “How should I report identity theft to police.?”
Police don’t want to ignore crime. But identity theft isn’t like the physical crimes most law enforcement officers are used to dealing with. Most evidence of ID Theft activity happens in the realm of electronic databases and paper transactions.
ID Theft investigations typically take a good bit of time and man-hours. Local police can’t possibly investigate most crimes that stem from identity theft — there just isn’t enough money or resources.
If your local police resist the idea of filling out an official police report then politely insist. One reason the police may resist filling out a report is because they think you expect them to exert a lot of time and effort investigating the crime. That, of course, is unlikely to happen.
Explain to the police that having a report for “informational purposes” is vital to clearing your credit profile … and legally protecting yourself from any crimes committed in your name by the identity thief. You can also explain the credit reporting agencies and credit grantors expect a police report to clear a credit profile tainted by identity theft. Prospective employers and future credit issuers also need to understand that you’re the victim of a genuine, serious crime.
If the police official tells you a credit grantor must report the crime before police can file a report then politely inform them this isn’t the case. Show them a copy of Federal Law Code 18 USC 1028a — the “Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act.A law that makes identity theft a “federal” offense against consumers.” Identity theft is a felony under applicable state laws too.
Tell them you need a police report for credit grantors to truly know you’re a victim of a serious crime, which is recognized by both Federal and State agencies. You can also explain that many creditor grantors don’t bother reporting identity theft because it happens so often they write it off as a cost of doing business.
If you’re a victim of identity fraud then credit issuers are going to expect you to prove that accounts you dispute weren’t really yours to begin with. A police report is needed for these basic reasons. If you’re persistent then you should be able to find a police official who sympathizes with your dilemma.
Jeanette
ce departments don’t want to deal with identity theft. So one of the first things you’re faced with as a victim of fraud is, “How should I report identity theft to police.?”
Police don’t want to ignore crime. But identity theft isn’t like the physical crimes most law enforcement officers are used to dealing with. Most evidence of ID Theft activity happens in the realm of electronic databases and paper transactions.
ID Theft investigations typically take a good bit of time and man-hours. Local police can’t possibly investigate most crimes that stem from identity theft — there just isn’t enough money or resources.
If your local police resist the idea of filling out an official police report then politely insist. One reason the police may resist filling out a report is because they think you expect them to exert a lot of time and effort investigating the crime. That, of course, is unlikely to happen.
Explain to the police that having a report for “informational purposes” is vital to clearing your credit profile … and legally protecting yourself from any crimes committed in your name by the identity thief. You can also explain the credit reporting agencies and credit grantors expect a police report to clear a credit profile tainted by identity theft. Prospective employers and future credit issuers also need to understand that you’re the victim of a genuine, serious crime.
If the police official tells you a credit grantor must report the crime before police can file a report then politely inform them this isn’t the case. Show them a copy of Federal Law Code 18 USC 1028a — the “Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act.A law that makes identity theft a “federal” offense against consumers.” Identity theft is a felony under applicable state laws too.
Tell them you need a police report for credit grantors to truly know you’re a victim of a serious crime, which is recognized by both Federal and State agencies. You can also explain that many creditor grantors don’t bother reporting identity theft because it happens so often they write it off as a cost of doing business.
If you’re a victim of identity fraud then credit issuers are going to expect you to prove that accounts you dispute weren’t really yours to begin with. A police report is needed for these basic reasons. If you’re persistent then you should be able to find a police official who sympathizes with your dilemma.
Jeanette
Jun
19
How an Identity Theft Protection Business Turned Into a Passion
Filed Under Business | Leave a Comment
C.w. Linart asked:
How is this for full disclosure?
I am a writer and businessman, not a law enforcement professional.
I know, you’re shocked. You probably thought that only the head of the FBI’s Identity Theft division would have enough knowledge to write such informative articles on the subject.
Law enforcement personnel who specialize in identity theft are busy. They are too busy to write articles. Tracking down ID theft and fighting beating back the tide of a crime that will claim ten million new victims this year alone consumes a lot of time. Law enforcement folks do not have time to write articles about it.
Plus, they are not writers. I am. They do their part, and I do mine.
They chase down the dirtballs who rip lives apart at the seams. I inform people about the threat so that they can be smart about it and protect themselves. I’m not sure whose job is tougher, the cops’ or mine.
Few people heed the wisdom that “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” There are people out there who have read my articles and not taken simple measures to protect themselves. Many of those people will find out the hard way about the reality of identity theft. Not my fault that they were complacent about it. They had the information. I did my little part to help them protect themselves.
Anyway, someone recently asked me, “How do you know so much about identity theft?” Here is a bluntly honest answer:
It started as a business. I found a great product that people need, and I decided to promote it. The truth is that I did not know identity theft from a hole in my head just a couple of months before I wrote my first article on the topic.
To do this business properly and provide value, I had to get the word out about the facts. I researched like mad, reading everything I could get my hands on. I also talked to a lot of people, including law enforcement agents.
A funny thing happened. As I learned more, I became passionate. It is no longer about the product that I promote but about the fact that I am doing some good in promoting it. This is a crime wave that wrecks too many lives. I feel good about doing my little part.
The good guys (that’s you and me) need to do everything we can to stop identity theft. Every little bit helps. I’m doing my part. Are you?
Dolores
How is this for full disclosure?
I am a writer and businessman, not a law enforcement professional.
I know, you’re shocked. You probably thought that only the head of the FBI’s Identity Theft division would have enough knowledge to write such informative articles on the subject.
Law enforcement personnel who specialize in identity theft are busy. They are too busy to write articles. Tracking down ID theft and fighting beating back the tide of a crime that will claim ten million new victims this year alone consumes a lot of time. Law enforcement folks do not have time to write articles about it.
Plus, they are not writers. I am. They do their part, and I do mine.
They chase down the dirtballs who rip lives apart at the seams. I inform people about the threat so that they can be smart about it and protect themselves. I’m not sure whose job is tougher, the cops’ or mine.
Few people heed the wisdom that “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” There are people out there who have read my articles and not taken simple measures to protect themselves. Many of those people will find out the hard way about the reality of identity theft. Not my fault that they were complacent about it. They had the information. I did my little part to help them protect themselves.
Anyway, someone recently asked me, “How do you know so much about identity theft?” Here is a bluntly honest answer:
It started as a business. I found a great product that people need, and I decided to promote it. The truth is that I did not know identity theft from a hole in my head just a couple of months before I wrote my first article on the topic.
To do this business properly and provide value, I had to get the word out about the facts. I researched like mad, reading everything I could get my hands on. I also talked to a lot of people, including law enforcement agents.
A funny thing happened. As I learned more, I became passionate. It is no longer about the product that I promote but about the fact that I am doing some good in promoting it. This is a crime wave that wrecks too many lives. I feel good about doing my little part.
The good guys (that’s you and me) need to do everything we can to stop identity theft. Every little bit helps. I’m doing my part. Are you?
Dolores
Jun
12
Identity Theft, Protecting Yourself Against the #1 Crime in the World
Filed Under Personal Finance | Leave a Comment
Robert Miller asked:
Identity Theft is now the number one crime in the entire world. It is estimated that $221 billion a year is lost by businesses worldwide due to identity theft. Cyber crime units now analyze 2,000 to 3,000 new viruses per hour. Much of the malware harvests financial and personal data sold to groups who turn it into cash through identity fraud.
One simple toll-free telephone call can block 99.9% of personal exposure to Identity Theft. Aside from expediency of commerce, it’s shocking that legislation has not been enacted to automatically force this common action without the consumer having to make the call.
Every 3 Seconds someone becomes a victim of Identity Theft, 20 lives ruined every minute, 1200 every hour, 28,800 every day, 201,600 every month, and 2,419,200 every year. The impact on the individual is staggering with thousands of dollars in costs and dozens of hours wasted trying to deal with the personal devastation. It could all have been avoided with one simple telephone call.
On an individual level, how does one become a victim of Identity Theft? And most importantly, how can we avoid becoming a victim of this prevalent crime? The odds are clearly stacked against society, our personal information is readily available in this high technology world.
Just as we use firewalls and virus protection programs for our computer health, we need to closely examine the anatomy of this crime of opportunity. What protections are available to insulate us against the potential damage from stolen personal idenitity information?
Many of us may already be victims of Identity Theft and don’t know it yet, or the impact of the fraud has yet to be perpetuated or discovered. Remember those special event tickets you bought, or the hotel reservation, car rental, or airline flight reservation call you made?
Have you ever purchased an automobile and filled out a loan application? How about an application for a cell phone, a store credit card, or an application for an apartment rental? What about a school, personal or equity loan?
Remember all of the information you probably provided? You most likely gave your credit card details, or birth date, social security number, address, bank account references, employment information and/or phone number.
Now ask yourself a few questions … Who has access to all of that information? Do you know them? Do you trust them? What’s to stop them from selling or misusing that data?
It’s a scary proposition, but right now there are probably several file cabinets or computer storage files in different places of business that house enough of your personal information to allow for an easy theft of your identity. It’s a fact of life, we’re ALL vulnerable. But you can easily block the use of that information. You’ll see how in just a moment, but first …
How does information theft become Identity Theft?
Stealing your personal information is only the first step in the criminal process. Once the information is gathered, the thief must then convert that information into a means by which he or she can profit.
One popular method is to simply call one of your credit card companies posing as you and change the billing address for the card and then begin making a series of purchases. Identity Theft perpetrators don’t even need your credit card, they can simply call and have a duplicate card issued. They can establish utility, cable, or cell phone service in your name. Some even obtain leases, car loans and more.
In one recent case, a local bank in Montgomery County, Maryland USA issued a check for $100,000 for an equity loan on a home. The entire transaction was recorded on bank cameras as the check was handed to an impersonator of the home’s actual owner. And that was the second time it happened to the same victim who was exonerated by authorities as an accomplice in the case.
Identity theft ruins lives. It creates a seemingly infinite number of short term problems that turn into a nightmare that can linger for decades. Don’t assume that it can’t happen to you.
ATMs are one the latest points of attack. Thieves have developed credit cards that can temporarily program any ATM machine to copy the magnetic data off of your credit or debit card when you use the machine. This method has effectively collected hundreds of victims in the course of a single weekend from a single machine.
Identity thieves also use handheld magnetic card readers that can be easily purchased right on the internet. Culprits include waiters and waitresses, store clerks, toll booth collectors, and gas station attendants to name a few.
64% of all fraud complaints involve identity theft and it’s not just credit cards. With your personal information, thieves can open bank accounts, order checks and run up huge debt by writing bad checks in your name. Identity thieves have become so creative and talented that most protections schemes can be thwarted.
So what’s the answer? Credit monitoring services like those offered by the credit bureau agencies? Simply put, that’s like having an alarm to alert you after you’ve been ripped off.
The solution is clear, placing a Fraud Alert on your credit profile with the primary credit bureau agencies will block 99.9% of attempts to use your personal information for credit without your permission. Fraud Alerts require direct contact with you before an account can be opened or credit extended in your name. They can be put in place for a period of 90 days and can be renewed every three months.
Unlike fraud alerts, the alternative Credit Freeze option remains in place indefinitely and no credit of any kind can be issued in your name until you take the required steps to remove the freeze.
Just one telephone call is all it takes to any of the primary credit bureaus in the United States:
Equifax: 1-800-525-6285; www.equifax.com P.O. Box 740241, Atlanta, GA 30374-0241
Experian: 1-888-EXPERIAN (397-3742); www.experian.com P.O. Box 9532, Allen, TX 75013
TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289; www.transunion.com Fraud Victim Assistance Division, P.O. Box 6790, Fullerton, CA 92834-6790
Identity Theft is not the only problem in using credit. Inside the complex credit system there are credit robbers. Some of your most trusted creditors are damaging your credit scores and credit rating without your knowledge.
But that’s a story for another article, for now you would be well advised to immediately place a Fraud Alert on your credit profile with any of the credit bureau agencies. Then be sure to update that order every 90 days. It’s the best way to avoid becoming an Identity Theft victim.
Judy
Identity Theft is now the number one crime in the entire world. It is estimated that $221 billion a year is lost by businesses worldwide due to identity theft. Cyber crime units now analyze 2,000 to 3,000 new viruses per hour. Much of the malware harvests financial and personal data sold to groups who turn it into cash through identity fraud.
One simple toll-free telephone call can block 99.9% of personal exposure to Identity Theft. Aside from expediency of commerce, it’s shocking that legislation has not been enacted to automatically force this common action without the consumer having to make the call.
Every 3 Seconds someone becomes a victim of Identity Theft, 20 lives ruined every minute, 1200 every hour, 28,800 every day, 201,600 every month, and 2,419,200 every year. The impact on the individual is staggering with thousands of dollars in costs and dozens of hours wasted trying to deal with the personal devastation. It could all have been avoided with one simple telephone call.
On an individual level, how does one become a victim of Identity Theft? And most importantly, how can we avoid becoming a victim of this prevalent crime? The odds are clearly stacked against society, our personal information is readily available in this high technology world.
Just as we use firewalls and virus protection programs for our computer health, we need to closely examine the anatomy of this crime of opportunity. What protections are available to insulate us against the potential damage from stolen personal idenitity information?
Many of us may already be victims of Identity Theft and don’t know it yet, or the impact of the fraud has yet to be perpetuated or discovered. Remember those special event tickets you bought, or the hotel reservation, car rental, or airline flight reservation call you made?
Have you ever purchased an automobile and filled out a loan application? How about an application for a cell phone, a store credit card, or an application for an apartment rental? What about a school, personal or equity loan?
Remember all of the information you probably provided? You most likely gave your credit card details, or birth date, social security number, address, bank account references, employment information and/or phone number.
Now ask yourself a few questions … Who has access to all of that information? Do you know them? Do you trust them? What’s to stop them from selling or misusing that data?
It’s a scary proposition, but right now there are probably several file cabinets or computer storage files in different places of business that house enough of your personal information to allow for an easy theft of your identity. It’s a fact of life, we’re ALL vulnerable. But you can easily block the use of that information. You’ll see how in just a moment, but first …
How does information theft become Identity Theft?
Stealing your personal information is only the first step in the criminal process. Once the information is gathered, the thief must then convert that information into a means by which he or she can profit.
One popular method is to simply call one of your credit card companies posing as you and change the billing address for the card and then begin making a series of purchases. Identity Theft perpetrators don’t even need your credit card, they can simply call and have a duplicate card issued. They can establish utility, cable, or cell phone service in your name. Some even obtain leases, car loans and more.
In one recent case, a local bank in Montgomery County, Maryland USA issued a check for $100,000 for an equity loan on a home. The entire transaction was recorded on bank cameras as the check was handed to an impersonator of the home’s actual owner. And that was the second time it happened to the same victim who was exonerated by authorities as an accomplice in the case.
Identity theft ruins lives. It creates a seemingly infinite number of short term problems that turn into a nightmare that can linger for decades. Don’t assume that it can’t happen to you.
ATMs are one the latest points of attack. Thieves have developed credit cards that can temporarily program any ATM machine to copy the magnetic data off of your credit or debit card when you use the machine. This method has effectively collected hundreds of victims in the course of a single weekend from a single machine.
Identity thieves also use handheld magnetic card readers that can be easily purchased right on the internet. Culprits include waiters and waitresses, store clerks, toll booth collectors, and gas station attendants to name a few.
64% of all fraud complaints involve identity theft and it’s not just credit cards. With your personal information, thieves can open bank accounts, order checks and run up huge debt by writing bad checks in your name. Identity thieves have become so creative and talented that most protections schemes can be thwarted.
So what’s the answer? Credit monitoring services like those offered by the credit bureau agencies? Simply put, that’s like having an alarm to alert you after you’ve been ripped off.
The solution is clear, placing a Fraud Alert on your credit profile with the primary credit bureau agencies will block 99.9% of attempts to use your personal information for credit without your permission. Fraud Alerts require direct contact with you before an account can be opened or credit extended in your name. They can be put in place for a period of 90 days and can be renewed every three months.
Unlike fraud alerts, the alternative Credit Freeze option remains in place indefinitely and no credit of any kind can be issued in your name until you take the required steps to remove the freeze.
Just one telephone call is all it takes to any of the primary credit bureaus in the United States:
Equifax: 1-800-525-6285; www.equifax.com P.O. Box 740241, Atlanta, GA 30374-0241
Experian: 1-888-EXPERIAN (397-3742); www.experian.com P.O. Box 9532, Allen, TX 75013
TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289; www.transunion.com Fraud Victim Assistance Division, P.O. Box 6790, Fullerton, CA 92834-6790
Identity Theft is not the only problem in using credit. Inside the complex credit system there are credit robbers. Some of your most trusted creditors are damaging your credit scores and credit rating without your knowledge.
But that’s a story for another article, for now you would be well advised to immediately place a Fraud Alert on your credit profile with any of the credit bureau agencies. Then be sure to update that order every 90 days. It’s the best way to avoid becoming an Identity Theft victim.
Judy
Jun
12
David Kamau asked:
Identity theft, or simply ID theft, is the fastest growing crime in America. The reason is simple; it pays and often the criminals off with light sentences. This article offers ways to prevent identity theft.
You should also know that that there are different forms of identity theft. Some of these are as follows:
1. Full identity theft: someone steals your data and then goes on to live as you. He/she will pose or disguise his/herself as you, obtain an identification documents and then clean you out – that is bank account, credit lines etc.
2. Credit hijacking: The thief will simply use your name and good credit to open new credit lines and then go on spending sprees, of course, without paying the bills. You only realize when you either get denied credit, get a call from your bank or some other bank or creditor, or receive a bill you have no idea about.
3. Synthetic identity theft: This involves using bits and pieces of personal information from several victims to create a whole new identity. This is perhaps the most difficult form of ID theft to detect.
There are the obvious precautions anyone can take and often offered as preventive ways. These will probably stop a petty thief, but the modern ID thief is much more sophisticated.
These mundane identity theft prevention ways include advice such as “shred your documents”, “don’t carry your social security card in your wallet”, and “don’t throw documents in the trash” and the like. Good measures, but the sophisticated thief would laugh at these.
You can stop most ID thieves on their tracks by placing a fraud alert on your credit file with the three major credit bureaus. Unlike credit monitoring, which alerts you after the fact, with a fraud alert you get contacted before any new credit lines are opened.
A fraud alert is only good for three months. After three months, you have to renew it, which the bureaus are not enthusiastic to do as they make money by selling your information to third parties for marketing purposes (which they cannot do if you have a fraud alert on your file).
You should also invest in a good antivirus and spyware remover for your computer. Keystroke loggers can get downloaded into your system, without you realizing it. Keystroke loggers track everything typed into a computer and then report back to the scammer via the Internet.
Maureen
Identity theft, or simply ID theft, is the fastest growing crime in America. The reason is simple; it pays and often the criminals off with light sentences. This article offers ways to prevent identity theft.
You should also know that that there are different forms of identity theft. Some of these are as follows:
1. Full identity theft: someone steals your data and then goes on to live as you. He/she will pose or disguise his/herself as you, obtain an identification documents and then clean you out – that is bank account, credit lines etc.
2. Credit hijacking: The thief will simply use your name and good credit to open new credit lines and then go on spending sprees, of course, without paying the bills. You only realize when you either get denied credit, get a call from your bank or some other bank or creditor, or receive a bill you have no idea about.
3. Synthetic identity theft: This involves using bits and pieces of personal information from several victims to create a whole new identity. This is perhaps the most difficult form of ID theft to detect.
There are the obvious precautions anyone can take and often offered as preventive ways. These will probably stop a petty thief, but the modern ID thief is much more sophisticated.
These mundane identity theft prevention ways include advice such as “shred your documents”, “don’t carry your social security card in your wallet”, and “don’t throw documents in the trash” and the like. Good measures, but the sophisticated thief would laugh at these.
You can stop most ID thieves on their tracks by placing a fraud alert on your credit file with the three major credit bureaus. Unlike credit monitoring, which alerts you after the fact, with a fraud alert you get contacted before any new credit lines are opened.
A fraud alert is only good for three months. After three months, you have to renew it, which the bureaus are not enthusiastic to do as they make money by selling your information to third parties for marketing purposes (which they cannot do if you have a fraud alert on your file).
You should also invest in a good antivirus and spyware remover for your computer. Keystroke loggers can get downloaded into your system, without you realizing it. Keystroke loggers track everything typed into a computer and then report back to the scammer via the Internet.
Maureen
Jun
10
Curtis K. Collins asked:
Did you know that 52% of all identity theft victims discovered that they were victims by monitoring their accounts with some sort of monitoring service? That percentage represents approximately 5 million people. Identity theft is the modern day plague affecting our wallets instead of our physical well-being. Tales of identity theft are cropping up all across the United States at lightning speed and are on the rise internationally. This trend is expected to continue with identity thieves getting younger and smarter.
You have worked hard all of your life to have a good job, above average home, and good credit. Realizing how easy it could all go away should be incentive enough to investigate something to protect your investments. If you have not already done so, you need to enroll in the most robust identity theft protection you can find and do it now.
There are a lot of different products on the market that will help you protect what is rightfully yours. Do the homework and investigation to find the right identity theft protection product out of the many on the market. Some provide reimbursement coverage while most provide credit alerts when any activity is noted in your credit file.
True, there are measures you can take to assist in your personal protection but they do not always work. I can list each of the preventative ways to safeguard your information but, quite frankly, if a thief wants your identity they will get it if they believe you are of value to them. ID Thieves are more sophisticated these days and are not just counterfeiting new checks based upon stolen account numbers anymore. Some are even stealing their own children’s identities. If they are doing that to their own children then imagine what they will do to steal yours.
The age of checks is going away and is being replaced by debit cards and/or credit cards but that opens up even more problems. If you are using the internet to do transactions you are at immense risk even if you have virus protection and a firewall on your computer. All it takes is a company that has your personal and financial information to be breached and your identity is out in cyber world for all to see.
In summation, the best identity theft protection is due diligence as well as a company working for you behind the scenes watching your back. Get the peace of mind you deserve while you work hard and continue living the American dream.
Jared
Did you know that 52% of all identity theft victims discovered that they were victims by monitoring their accounts with some sort of monitoring service? That percentage represents approximately 5 million people. Identity theft is the modern day plague affecting our wallets instead of our physical well-being. Tales of identity theft are cropping up all across the United States at lightning speed and are on the rise internationally. This trend is expected to continue with identity thieves getting younger and smarter.
You have worked hard all of your life to have a good job, above average home, and good credit. Realizing how easy it could all go away should be incentive enough to investigate something to protect your investments. If you have not already done so, you need to enroll in the most robust identity theft protection you can find and do it now.
There are a lot of different products on the market that will help you protect what is rightfully yours. Do the homework and investigation to find the right identity theft protection product out of the many on the market. Some provide reimbursement coverage while most provide credit alerts when any activity is noted in your credit file.
True, there are measures you can take to assist in your personal protection but they do not always work. I can list each of the preventative ways to safeguard your information but, quite frankly, if a thief wants your identity they will get it if they believe you are of value to them. ID Thieves are more sophisticated these days and are not just counterfeiting new checks based upon stolen account numbers anymore. Some are even stealing their own children’s identities. If they are doing that to their own children then imagine what they will do to steal yours.
The age of checks is going away and is being replaced by debit cards and/or credit cards but that opens up even more problems. If you are using the internet to do transactions you are at immense risk even if you have virus protection and a firewall on your computer. All it takes is a company that has your personal and financial information to be breached and your identity is out in cyber world for all to see.
In summation, the best identity theft protection is due diligence as well as a company working for you behind the scenes watching your back. Get the peace of mind you deserve while you work hard and continue living the American dream.
Jared
Jun
5
Wade Robins asked:
Credit card identity theft where your credit card is stolen, your PIN is stolen or someone opens another credit card in your name, can all be particularly damaging to your credit score. Unfortunately a credit score isn’t so easily restored but there are a couple of things you can do to make the best of the situation and restore it as much as possible. In this article we will look at what you should do before and after credit card identity theft in order to best protect and restore your credit score.
The first thing you should do whenever you receive a new credit card is to make photocopies of both sides of the card and file these away in a safe place. This way if your credit card goes missing or you believe it may have been compromised you can immediately put a stop to it.
Regularly request credit reports on your name. These credit reports will show you whether any other credit cards have been opened in your name that you do not know about. The sooner you find out that a card has been opened in your name that is incorrect the sooner you will be able to put a stop to it and prevent any damage from occurring.
Only carry around with you those credit cards that you are going to be using and try to keep a minimum of credit cards.
If you discover that your credit card has gone missing or if there is any chance that your credit card information may have been compromised and used in credit card identity theft then the first thing you should do is to stop the relevant card or cards. Phone the card issuer and let them know that you believe you may have been a victim of credit card identity theft and if they could immediately put a stop to all purchases on the card.
You should also contact one of the credit card bureaus if you believe you have been a victim of credit card identity theft and report the matter to them. They can then put a fraud alert on your credit report which will make it more difficult for anyone to open another account in your name.
File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission and with the local police station where the ID theft took place and give them a copy of your form from the FTC. For more info see http://www.preventidentitythefthelp.com/Identity_Theft_Protection on identity theft protection.
By following these preventative measures and taking action if you believe you have been a victim of credit card identity theft you will be in a much better place to restore your credit score if anything does happen and will hopefully be able to prevent too much damage taking place from the start.
Vicki
Credit card identity theft where your credit card is stolen, your PIN is stolen or someone opens another credit card in your name, can all be particularly damaging to your credit score. Unfortunately a credit score isn’t so easily restored but there are a couple of things you can do to make the best of the situation and restore it as much as possible. In this article we will look at what you should do before and after credit card identity theft in order to best protect and restore your credit score.
The first thing you should do whenever you receive a new credit card is to make photocopies of both sides of the card and file these away in a safe place. This way if your credit card goes missing or you believe it may have been compromised you can immediately put a stop to it.
Regularly request credit reports on your name. These credit reports will show you whether any other credit cards have been opened in your name that you do not know about. The sooner you find out that a card has been opened in your name that is incorrect the sooner you will be able to put a stop to it and prevent any damage from occurring.
Only carry around with you those credit cards that you are going to be using and try to keep a minimum of credit cards.
If you discover that your credit card has gone missing or if there is any chance that your credit card information may have been compromised and used in credit card identity theft then the first thing you should do is to stop the relevant card or cards. Phone the card issuer and let them know that you believe you may have been a victim of credit card identity theft and if they could immediately put a stop to all purchases on the card.
You should also contact one of the credit card bureaus if you believe you have been a victim of credit card identity theft and report the matter to them. They can then put a fraud alert on your credit report which will make it more difficult for anyone to open another account in your name.
File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission and with the local police station where the ID theft took place and give them a copy of your form from the FTC. For more info see http://www.preventidentitythefthelp.com/Identity_Theft_Protection on identity theft protection.
By following these preventative measures and taking action if you believe you have been a victim of credit card identity theft you will be in a much better place to restore your credit score if anything does happen and will hopefully be able to prevent too much damage taking place from the start.
Vicki