That Keeps On Stealing (NAPSA)—It’s an information jungle out there. Nearly one American every minuteis a victim of identity theft. The thieves don’t need much: A receipt you’ve left behind. A bill you’ve mailed from your mailbox. A missing check. Information you’ve provided over WA cS the Internet to strangers. 7 le It’s your responsibility to pro- tect against identity theft. Identity theft is one of the fastest-growing forms of white-col- lar fraud, with up to 500,000 indi- viduals victimized each year. Protect yourself from becoming a victim with these tips from The American Bankers Association: 1. Guard your mail, which contains private information. Don’t leave it in an unlocked mailbox. 2. Keep an eye on account activity. Report any suspicious transactions immediately. 3. Before discardingbills, cancelled checks, bank statements, etc., tear them up or shred them. 4. Don’t carry your Social Security card, birth certificate or passport in your wallet or purse. 5. Order a copy of your credit report twice a year, and make sure all accounts and inquiries belong to you. For additional information on how your bank can keep your finances and identity safe, call 1800-BANKERS orvisit the Web site at www.aba.com.
