Attorney General Ashley Moody is taking action during Identity Theft Prevention and Awareness Month to help Floridians protect their personal information. With identity theft being the leading source of fraud in Florida, accounting for 27% of all fraud reports in 2022, Attorney General Moody is providing tips and resources to help individuals avoid falling victim.
"Identity theft can have devastating effects on individuals causing financial troubles that can last years," said Attorney General Moody. "During Identity Theft Prevention and Awareness Month, we are providing Floridians with resources and information to help them secure their sensitive data and stay one step ahead of fraudsters."
According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Florida experienced over $331 million in fraud losses in 2021, with the average amount lost per person being more than $530. The most common types of identity theft affecting Floridians include credit card fraud, loan or lease fraud, government documents or benefits fraud, and bank fraud.
To help prevent identity theft, Attorney General Moody offers the following tips:
1. Guard Personal Information: Be cautious about sharing sensitive information online or over the phone, and only provide such information if absolutely necessary.
2. Monitor Financial Statements: Regularly review bank statements, credit card statements, and other financial records for any unauthorized or suspicious transactions.
3. Use Strong Passwords: Create unique passwords for online accounts and update them regularly. Consider using two-factor authentication for added security.
4. Be Wary of Phishing: Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails, calls, or messages. Verify the legitimacy of a request before providing any information.
5. Shred Sensitive Documents: Shred documents containing personal information before disposal to prevent them from falling into the wrong hands.
For more information on how to avoid identity theft or what to do if your identity is stolen, Attorney General Moody's Scams at a Glance: Identity Theft resource provides valuable guidance. Additionally, the FTC's Consumer.gov website offers a comprehensive guide explaining what identity theft is, how to recognize it, and what to do if you become a victim.
If you encounter identity theft, it is important to report it to the FTC at IdentityTheft.gov or by calling 1(877) 438-4338.
In conclusion, Attorney General Ashley Moody is actively working to protect Floridians from identity theft during Identity Theft Prevention and Awareness Month. By following the provided tips and resources, individuals can safeguard their personal information and stay one step ahead of fraudsters. Remember, prevention is key in avoiding the devastating effects of identity theft.
To find out more, go to this link: https://www.myfloridalegal.com/newsrelease/video-consumer-alert-ag-moody-releases-tips-safeguard-information-during-identity-theft