Work & Family Benefits, Inc. Values Package ®
Monthly Bulletin
November 2005

Identity Fraud – Be Informed, Alert, and Aware

Many people feel completely secure giving out credit card and other personal identification numbers on the internet, over the phone, or in shops, using telephone calling cards, bank account credit and ATM cards. And with this increased comfort level, more criminals are finding ways to “steal” and use this personal information illegally .

Common ways that “identity scam artists” operate include:

•  “ Shoulder surfing” – watching from nearby as you punch in your telephone card or credit card numbers at a public phone.

•  “Dumpster diving” – going through garbage cans to find copies of your bank and credit card statements, phone bills, and other financial papers.

•  “Just listening in” – who hasn't shared their social security, phone, or credit card numbers at a doctor's office or store—totally unaware of who might be overhearing?

•  Creating fake internet offers to solicit personal information online.

In each case, people unwittingly provide information that scam artists can use to make purchases, apply for loans and credit cards, and even withdraw money from bank accounts!

How can you protect yourself?

•  Check your monthly credit card and bank statements to see if there is any unusual activity.

•  Keep careful records of all bank and financial accounts.

•  Get periodic credit updates to see if anything unusual is reported.

•  Be aware of when, where, and with whom you share your personal information. You can't stop using your identification numbers, but you can be more alert to circumstances and surroundings.

As your work-life benefits company, we at Work & Family Benefits are glad to be of service to you in providing this important identity fraud information. We are also available to help with dependent care issues, and many other concerns in your life . Call us anytime for a free, personalized counselor consultation at 1-800-328-4071 , or visit us online at www.wfbenefits.com .