Government posts tip sheet against identity theft

The Department of Government Services and Lands has posted information on its Web site on how people can protect themselves from identity theft.

"This is one of the fastest rising crimes and it catches victims totally unaware," said Government Services and Lands Minister Dianne Whalen. "I want people to be aware of the danger of identity theft and how to know if they are a target."

Stolen identities have been used to go on spending sprees, and to apply for loans, credit cards or social benefits. Thieves have even diverted mail and rented apartments under their new names.

The minister said people have to protect themselves against these types of crimes. The tip sheet will help people do that.

She said people can reduce the risk of identity theft by guarding personal and financial information closely, and by shredding financial statements and charge receipts. People should always cut up expired and unused credit cards.

A birth certificate, driver's licence or social insurance card are a person�s main identity documents. Once stolen, these documents can be used to get access to other personal and financial information.

Victims of identity theft are often unaware their identities have been stolen, and it can take years for a person to clear their name and reverse the damage. Some signs to look for include:

• Bills and statements don't arrive. Someone may have changed the mailing address.
• A credit application is rejected for reasons that don�t match your understanding of your financial position.
• Statements arrive for a credit card you don�t own.

The tip sheet is available by calling Consumer Affairs at (709) 729-2600 or visiting the government Web site at www.gov.nl.ca/gsl

Media contact: Tracy Barron, Communications, (709) 729-4860 or 690-6157

2003 12 30                                        9:00 a.m.