Seven Tips for College-Bound Students to Fight Identity Theft

Seven Tips for College-Bound Students to Fight Identity Theft

Austin, TX – More than 11 million people became victims of identity theft in 2009 according to the 2010 Identity Fraud Survey Report released by Javelin Strategy and Research. Consumers 18 to 24, typically college students or recent graduates, took the longest to detect identity theft (132 days) and were hit harder ($1,156 per complaint) than any other age group. Because they are so susceptible to identity theft, Better Business Bureau recommends college students take a few simple steps to protect themselves on campus.

“College students are new to making decisions and taking care of themselves, so they tend to be more victimized,” said Carrie A. Hurt, President and CEO of BBB serving Central, Coastal and Southwest Texas. “It’s important to practice good habits for preventing and detecting fraud so you can recognize a problem before it happens.”

Seven Tips to Fight Identity Theft on Campus:

1. Campus mailboxes may not always be secure. They are often easily accessed in a dorm or apartment. Have sensitive mail sent to a permanent address such as your parents’ home or invest in a secure PO Box.

2. Important documents should be securely stored. This includes your social security card, passport and bank and credit card statements. Shred all paper documents that contain sensitive financial information and any credit card offers that come in the mail.

3. Never loan your credit or debit card to anyone. If you feel the need to pay for a friend’s meal or a tank of gas, go with them instead. Avoid cosigning for a loan or financing expensive items like TVs, computers or furniture.

4. Make sure your computer software is up to date. Many college buildings and classrooms have Wi-Fi available and can be susceptible to hackers. Download updates to your antivirus and spyware software on a regular basis to keep your personal documents and information safe. Never use a shared computer workstation to pay bills or shop online.

5. Check your credit and debit card statements frequently. Look for any suspicious activity or purchases. The sooner you identify potential fraud, the sooner any charges made can be refunded to you. 

6. Look for the BBB seal. When shopping on unfamiliar websites, always check for the BBB Accredited Business seal and click to confirm it is legitimate. 

7. Check your credit report at least once a year. Experian, Equifax and TransUnion each offer a free credit report once a year. Visit www.annualcreditreport.com to request a report and look for any suspicious activity or inaccuracies.

To check the reliability of a company and find trustworthy businesses, visit BBB.

About BBB:
BBB's mission is to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust. BBB accomplishes this mission by creating a community of trustworthy businesses, setting standards for marketplace trust, encouraging and supporting best practices, celebrating marketplace role models and denouncing substandard marketplace behavior.

Businesses that earn BBB Accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization's high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB is the preeminent resource to turn to for objective, unbiased information on businesses and charities. 

Contact BBB serving Central, Coastal and Southwest Texas at (512) 445-4748.

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