New Tool Available to Help Victims of Identity Theft

Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster said his office has developed an Identity Theft Prevention and Repair web page where Missourians can learn how to protect themselves from being a victim and how to repair the damage caused by identity theft.

See Also: Safeguard your personal information

Koster said identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in the United States. He said the FTC estimates that as many nine million Americans are victims of identity theft each year.

“Identity theft can be a frightening and devastating experience that can be expensive and can damage your good name,” Koster said. “This website provides you with detailed information to help you prevent the theft of your identity and outlines the action you should take to repair damage caused by identity theft.”

Koster said identity thieves can get your personal information in a number of ways, including going through your trash, stealing your mail or your wallet or purse, obtaining your credit report by posing as an employer or landlord, or filling out a “change of address” form diverting your mail to another location. He said the site includes details information about how you can prevent identity theft, what to do if you suspect you may be a victim of identity theft, what to do once you know your identity has been stolen, and how to get free annual credit reports.

The AARP Missouri Speakers Bureau, “Speak Out!”, offers free presentations on “Identity Theft” which includes a variety of fact sheets and handouts, some from the Office of the Missouri Attorney General.

Speakers are available in metropolitan Kansas City and St. Louis, Independence, Springfield, Joplin, Hannibal, Poplar Bluff, and Macon. Plan ahead – please make a request at least four weeks in advance for a group of 20 or more.

Groups interested in securing a volunteer to speak should send an email to aarpmo@aarp.org with the following information:

• Requesting group name
  
• Contact person name(s)
  
• Telephone number/mobile telephone number
  
• Email address
  
• Mailing address
  
• Date speaker needed and time of the event
  
• Audience size (to ensure that appropriate quantities of publications are available)
  
• Any other pertinent information that will assist the speaker
  

This information will be forwarded to the Volunteer Coordinator in your area for assignment. The requesting organization will be contacted when a volunteer speaker has been identified. Visit this website frequently, because periodically, additional information is posted about the Speakers Bureau.

Find more information: Identity Theft is a Crime.