Identity Theft Consumer Tips and Info

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​​Child Identity Protection
Minors make ideal targets for identity thieves because they have a clean credit history and the crime could go undetected for years.
​​Child Online Safety
The internet plays an important role in modern family life. It is crucial​ to provide proper guidance on safe and responsible online behavior.

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Before donating, selling or discarding your old computer, remove all personal ​data from the hard drive to prevent identity theft.
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We use computers for everything. So what do you do when your computer is hacked? There are a few simple but very important steps.
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Passwords are your first line of defense against cyber criminals while conducting online transactions or simply browsing the internet.

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Wisconsin consumers have the right to place a security freeze on their credit reports. A security freeze can help protect from identity theft.
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​​You just found out from the news or a notification letter that your personal information was part of a data breach. What should you do?
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You have a right to receive copies of documents relating to fraudulent transactions made or accounts opened using your information.

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​The Wisconsin Department of Revenue assists victims of fraudulent tax returns, but there are a few steps any victim should take.
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Federal law requires nationwide consumer reporting companies to give you one free copy of your credit report per year upon request.
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Most people unknowingly share a great deal of information about their exact location by simply posting 'geotagged' photos online.

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When citizens become victims of identity theft, there are steps law enforcement can take to help them recover.
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Are you looking to limit your identity theft risks? This is an excellent one-stop resource for beginning your research.
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Identity Theft Protection Services
There are many businesses that now offer credit report monitoring services, identity theft protection, and identity theft insurance.

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There are many ways to protect your personal information. Learn the best methods for keeping your data and devices secure.
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Imposters are everywhere! Calls, texts, emails, physical mail, and online ads are all​​ used by scammers who are not what they seem​.
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When someone uses your private information to make fraudulent claims for medical goods or services, identity theft has occurred.

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When scammers 'bait' you into giving up your personal information, they are "phishing" you. There are numerous forms of phishing.

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Privacy notices explain what personal information a company collects; what will be done with it; and how you can limit it.
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Social networking websites are a place for internet users to come together. As these sites grow in popularity, so do their risks.
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Student Tips
​​​Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in the country. What you do now to protect your identity may affect your life for many years.

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Student Tips to Prevent Identity Theft
The internet is a part of our everyday lives. While it makes communication easier, it also increases the risk of identity theft.
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Tax-related identity theft means your Social Security number was compromised. How can you notice it, and how can you prevent it?
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Phishers use clever SMS text messages to trick you into giving them your personal information. This is known as "smishing."


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Vacations are a prime opportunity for identity thieves, and your risk of fraud and identity theft may increase when you travel.

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There are a number of useful steps that identity theft victims can take to help clear their records and reclaim their identities.
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Most wallets contain personal information that would allow a thief to easily steal your identity, but you can minimize your risk.

Wi-Fi is a radio wave-based technology that allows devices to wirelessly connect to the internet, but not all networks are secure.
​Wisconsin's Data Breach Notification Law
State law requires most businesses to notify individuals if an unauthorized person accesses their information.​​
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Your Social Security Number​
Social Security numbers were not originally meant to be used as a general identifier. Thieves steal them to set up fraudulent accounts.

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