Monday Blogwrap

Re: Identity theft--I was a victim myself, just last week. And I keep hearing more and more stories about the increasing number of cases. I'd urge people to be very careful with their information, especially when you're filling out rental applications, co-op applications, broker forms, etc. Monitor your cards, bank accounts, and credit report continuously.

Posted by: guest at January 14, 2008 6:31 PM

Nice photo. That's my block!

Posted by: guest at January 14, 2008 8:58 PM

Identity Theft:

I was a victim about 3 years ago and it was a huge mess. It took a year to clear up and kept resurfacing in different ways like a nasty boil. We suspect our mail was stolen to get id info. Make sure your mail box is locked! I also found that my first phone call to report a problem to utilities, credit cards, etc was always the one where I was able to get the most information about who opened the account, when, what info they used. Somehow the ranks would be closed on follow up calls. I also reported it to the 88th precinct and had a detective on the case who was very approachable and it seemed to give me credibility in following up with the fraudulant accounts. If you find yourself a victim -- jump on it immediately, take notes and follow through till you receive written satisfaction that your accounts are clear.

Posted by: guest at January 15, 2008 8:49 AM

^^ Another Identity Theft Point
In the last few weeks while walking my dog in Clinton Hill in the morning I have noticed garbage bags methodically sliced open and searched. Shredders are important to use as well.

Posted by: guest at January 15, 2008 8:55 AM

In October, someone was able to access my debit card number & PIN and unload my checking account--without my losing my debit card. Now, I've banned ATMs and debit card machines--fraud is getting too easy with the increased technology. When I made the report to the 88th, the det. said someone reported another ID theft the day before--probably by having new card in mail stolen. :o

-supergirl.

Posted by: guest at January 15, 2008 10:54 AM

We were a victim too. These people are smart. Make sure and renew your security with the credit bureaus again right after your 90 days is up. My husband did it two days after his expired and the identity theft promptly tried to by a car three days after the 90 day period.
Good luck, Sarah

Posted by: guest at January 15, 2008 1:41 PM