Identity theft. A crime that barely existed a decade ago has now become one of the most devastating and expensive offenses in modern society. This month's column will be the first in a series of columns that will spotlight the growing problem of identity theft and provide solutions so that you can protect yourself. Next month, I will tell you what steps you can take if you become a victim of this growing crime.

According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), in 2001, the FTC received over 86,000 reports of identity theft and as we become more dependent on electronic transactions, these figures are likely to continue rising. However, there are some simple things that you can do right away to help reduce your risk of becoming another statistic.

Identity thieves use a host of tactics to acquire your personal information. These tactics include, but are not limited to, stealing your wallet or purse, stealing your mail or calling victims to solicit information (this is popular among our senior population). Thieves have also been known to rummage through your trash in order to obtain key information such as name, address, date of birth, social security number and mother's maiden name. The following list contains information that you will need so that this does not happen to you.

Protect your personal information with these safety tips:

1. Make sure you're using a secure browser when shopping online. Look for a "lock" on your browser's status bar.

2. Find out how personal information will be used before revealing it online or by phone. Read-or ask-about the company's privacy policy. Companies are now required by law to provide you with an "opt-out" clause so that your information is not shared or sold to other companies.

3. Check the privacy policies that are posted on websites your children visit. Tell your kids never to give out personal information over the Internet or telephone.

4. Avoid using passwords based on easily available information, such as your mother's maiden name, your birth date, social security number or your phone number.

5. Carry only the ID and credit cards you need. It is a good idea to place the contents of your wallet on a photocopy machine and make copies of both sides of all cards. That way you will have account and telephone numbers readily available in the event they are stolen or misplaced.

6. Shred receipts, credit applications, insurance forms, physician statements, checks, bank statements, credit offers and mailing labels from magazines to thwart identity thieves. Destroy expired charge cards.

7. Only place your outgoing mail in post office collection boxes or at your local post office. Thieves often target unsecured mailboxes that are located in the front of your home. Once you put the red flag up to signal your postman of outgoing mail, you have also inadvertently "red flagged" your mailbox for a would-be thief. Once you leave, they have access to whatever items you have placed in the mailbox. If you are like me, these are often bills that contain account numbers and vital information.

8. Make sure your credit report is accurate. For about $9 you can order a copy of your report each year from one of the three major credit-reporting agencies:

Equifax, www.equifax.com or (800) 685-1111;
Experian, www.experian.com or (888) 397-3742; or
TransUnion, www.transunion.com or (800) 888-4213.

9. In the State of Kansas, residents have the option of either using their social security numbers or having the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) issue drivers a separate driver's license number. It is a good idea to have your local DMV issue one of these random numbers the next time you renew your license. Remember, a Kansas driver's license contains all of your vital information including a copy of your signature.

10. Do not carry your Social Security card with you. Instead, leave it in a secure place. Also, only give your Social Security Number (SSN) when absolutely necessary. Ask the following questions before revealing your SSN: Why do you need my SSN?; How will my SSN be used?; What law requires me to give you my SSN?; and What will happen if I don't give you my SSN?. If you choose to not reveal your SSN, the business may choose to not provide you with the service or benefit you're seeking but at least you will have the option. Remember, it is YOUR Social Security Number and it is up to you to keep it safe.

Identity theft is a fact of life that we must all contend with but by following these simple steps, you can help ensure that you will not be the next victim. Unfortunately, if a thief is determined to obtain your personal information, then there is only so much that you can do to stop them. However, if you make it difficult to obtain your information then thieves are likely to pass you by and move on to the next unsuspecting victim.

Editors note: Portions of this article have been contributed by the Federal Trade Commission and the Certified Public Accounting firm of Olsen Thielen & Company, Ltd. Permission has been granted for reproduction without attribution. If you have any questions or comments, please send an email to jenalea@treasurer.state.ks.us or call (785) 296-3342 to receive a free copy.