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Trick, Don’t Treat, Cyber Criminals
By Phil Walton, Social Security Manager in Toledo, Oh
Guest Column
Kids and kids at heart look forward to the end of October,
when we use tricks and treats in equal measure to celebrate
Halloween. No doubt, you’ll be passing out treats to
costumed hobgoblins and hooligans in your neighborhood this
Halloween night. But be careful that you’re not fooled by a
different kind of trickster looking for a larger
handout—such as your identity.
October also is Crime Prevention Month and National Cyber
Security Awareness Month. So it is the perfect time to
remind you to safeguard your personal information—whether
it’s online, on paper, or given out in person. Don’t share
your personal information, such as your full name, date of
birth, mother’s maiden name, and your Social Security
number, with anyone unless you are certain it is safe. Shred
paperwork that includes personal information before throwing
it out. And never reply to emails claiming to be from Social
Security and asking for such information. Finally, don’t
carry your Social Security card or number with you. These
tips should help reduce your risk of identity theft.
Identity theft is one of the fastest-growing crimes in
America. If you think you’ve been the victim of an identity
thief, you should contact the Federal Trade Commission at
www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft. Or
you can call 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338); TTY
1-866-653-4261. Learn more about identity theft by reading
our publication, Identity Theft And Your Social Security
Number, available at
www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs.
Be cautious of tricksters trying to steal more than a sack
of candy. Being the victim of identity theft can be
horrifying. Enjoy the treats, but avoid the tricks.
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