Women in Business: Identity Theft Prevention and Protection

Earlier this week we partnered with State Bank and the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce to sponsor this month’s Women in Business Luncheon with guest speaker Kathy Druckenmiller, the Fraud Protection Manager at State Bank. The topic: Identity Theft Prevention and Protection. Kathy discussed some great tips on how to protect yourself and your loved ones from identity theft, and what steps you can take to make sure your personal information is being protected.

Ellefson Transportation Group sponsored this month’s Women in Business Luncheon and a talk on Identity Theft Protection and Prevention. A few of our team members had the opportunity to attend the event. Pictured (LtoR): Anita Ellefson, Brian Ellefson, Stephen Hamrick, Bridgett Summerour, Scott Creswell

One topic of interest was the discussion on the growing trend of child identity theft. Since children are less active, financially, they are prime targets for those looking to use and abuse false identities to commit health care, federal assistance, and financial fraud. A study of 2015 fraud cases saw a marked increase in identity theft, with over 13.1 consumers falling victim to identity theft practices. Of all the possible victims out there, children are 51% more likely to be victims of identity theft. Why?

“Children are primary targets of identity theft because of their clean record,” wrote Kate Williams, director of research for consumer advocacy group Consumer Affairs. “Online and familial thieves can use a child’s Social Security number (SSN) to start a credit history that will devastate the child when she gets older and tries to apply for credit cards, get a job or even get a driver’s license.”

At Tuesday’s event Kathy discussed a few of the warning signs of child identity theft and what steps you can take if you believe your child’s identity has been stolen, as noted in this article by the Federal Trade Commission. Being on the look out for suspicious activities and warning signs are key to keeping your child’s identity safe. Here are a few of the warning signs you should be aware of:

• be turned down for government benefits because the benefits are being paid to another account using your child’s Social Security number
• get a notice from the IRS saying the child didn’t pay income taxes, or that the child’s Social Security number was used on another tax return
• get collection calls or bills for products or services you didn’t receive

If you’re wondering what additional steps you can take, to protect personal and proprietary information, we can help! Did you know that Augusta Data Storage accepts and shreds consumer documents and e-scrap? That’s right! Our secure destruction services are not restricted to local businesses and medical facilities. We want to make sure you have all the tools available to help protect your identity and the identities of those around you. Call us today to find out more about our drop-off shredding service for your personal documents and electronic waste!