Internet Identity Theft

The Crime Of Internet Identity Theft Continues To Increase And Can Destroy Your Good Name

Despite the efforts of many government agencies and the computer industry in general, Internet identity theft continues to be a large problem in the United States as well as throughout the world. The number of cases continues to increase from year to year even when the technology to prevent identity theft has gotten better and more and more sophisticated.

In addition to the better technology, users of the Internet also have become more cautious in using sites that are suspicious and ask for personal information. Safety continues to improve with legitimate sites that market their products and services via the Internet. The laws continue to change and develop as we learn more about the scams and fraud that happen in the Internet world.

The statistics now show that more and more cases are being brought to trial and to justice as laws have changed and agencies take aim at cracking down on computer crimes such as phishing.  Victims of identity theft now have state and federal agencies they can report to and make claims against illegal activities.

Reporting these criminal activities has become easier and better managed by law enforcement agencies with better techniques to investigate and prosecute acts of identity theft.

Much of what law enforcement now acts upon is related to credit card fraud and identity theft of driver's license material. Scams and phishing activities also continue to be investigated for the consumer and help is available to protect your good credit rating with credit bureaus.

It is important to keep track of your credit card spending and made sure that whatever charges you find on your monthly statements are real and actual purchases made by you. It is wise to keep a record of all your credit card activity and the account numbers and phone numbers of your credit card carriers.

You may have to call them to report cards that have been stolen through an Internet scam.  Victims of Internet identity theft have rights and need to follow the guidelines carefully to prevent from being liable for charges that are made and to protect your privacy and personal information.

If you suspect you have been a victim of identity theft make sure to call the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and to call your state attorney general with specific details. The more specific you can be the better chance that your information will help to bring a criminal to justice.  Be wise and use common sense to protect your identity and personal information at all time when using the Internet.