Social Networing Sites Befriending Identity Theft

Social networking sites are increasingly becoming one of the internet most utilized activities. However, how often does one think that their Facebook site is hazardous to their identity. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, an estimated 11.7 million Americans were victims of identity theft in 2010 (U.S. Dept. of Justice). Identity theft is defined as a crime where someone illegally acquires and utilizes another person’s vital information to deceive for personal gain. That same year, the Federal Trade Commission reported that identity theft crimes cost businesses and individuals an estimated $53 billion (Federal Trade Commission). Most Americans are familiar with identity theft but aren’t well-informed about the influence it has on†¦show more content†¦Best case scenario would be that one is never a victim of identity theft. There can additionally be ramifications reflected in the economy from identity theft crimes. In 2003, identity theft cost businesse s over $32.6 billion according to the Federal Trade Commission. Businesses are inclined to charge off debts sustained during identity theft which means everyone pays. Although identity theft should be seen as a threat to be eradicated, there is so much personal information used to complete essential tasks that it’s nearly impossible to do so. However, social networking experts have come up with several steps to minimize one’s risk of being victimized. (Federal Trade Commission) Other steps for minimizing identity theft consists of obtaining a yearly credit report from all three credit agencies, retaining from distributing any crucial information, using a locked mailbox, being attentive to the schedule of arriving mail, signing up for Federal Trade Commission do not call registry, utilizing passwords on credit cards, bank and phone accounts, not storing financial information on laptops, making sure anti-virus, spyware and firewall programs are active on personal computers, maintaining accurate records and keeping them in a safe. Other things that should be considered when protecting an identity is buying a cross-cut type shredder, bei ng cautious using ATMs, having checks delivered to the bank not one’s home address, dropping any mailed forms of payment off at the