As part of National Consumer Protection Week, members of the United States Postal Service spoke to residents at Cathedral Towers Thursday as part of a nationwide tour to educate the elderly on how not to become a victim of identity theft.
Identity theft occurs when someone gains access to another’s personal information to impersonate that person for their own gain. Fraudulent activities include the purchase of high-ticket items such as automobiles, taking over financial accounts or opening new bank accounts, applying for loans, Social Security benefits or credit cards, renting space and/or establishing utility or phone service.
“Identity theft is probably the fastest growing crime in America,” said assistant U.S. attorney Kathleen O’Malley. “In our office, I handle a good deal of the cases involving the abuse, neglect and exploitation of the elderly,” said Mac Heavener, an assistant state attorney. “Everyone can be a victim of this. Sometimes it’s the people you know and come to trust.”
According to Heavener, U. S. senators John Breaux of Louisiana and Orrin Hatch of Utah will introduce federal legislation Monday called the Elder Justice Act to implement programs designed to protect senior citizens.
For large-scale, interstate schemes, the Secret Service investigates. Bob Jasinski, a Secret Service agent, suggests keeping a watchful eye on charges on credit card statements and requesting a credit report if you suspect fraud. Another suggestion is not giving personal information over the telephone.
“Monthly, review your account statements,” added FDLE supervisory agent Mike Taylor. “Florida ranks third for incidents of identity theft.”