Better Business Bureau
Teen Smart Program
TEENS AND IDENTITY THEFT
ID thieves target teens. According to a PBS report on identity theft, young people like you are now the
number one target. Most teens and young adults do not have credit histories. That makes you are a
lucrative target for thieves who want to steal your fresh slate to take out loans or purchase clothes,
cars, stereos and vacations they never intend to pay for-all in your good name. Having your identity
stolen can prevent you from getting your first driver's license or a student loan for college.
It's true. Identity thieves are not always strangers lurking in the shadows but often people you may
least expect, such as friends, classmates, neighbors, acquaintances or even relatives. You don't have
to be skeptical of everyone, just follow safe practices.
Here are some tips to keep your identity where it belongs: with you.
What is identity theft? ID theft is the criminal practice of deliberately using false or stolen information
such as person's name, birth date, Social Security Number, address and bank account information to
obtain merchandise and cash.
What do I do if I'm a victim?
 Act immediately as soon as you realize, or highly suspect, your identity has been stolen.
 Place a fraud alert on your credit file by contacting one of the three national major credit
bureaus. Keep these numbers in a handy place:

 Equifax: 1-800-525-6285; www.equifax.com;

 Experian: 1-888-397-3742; www.experian.com;

 TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289; www.transunion.com;
 Close accounts that have been tampered with or opened fraudulently.
 File a police report and get copies as proof of the crime to submit to creditors.
 File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.

What can I do to prevent myself from becoming a victim?
 Always keep track of your purse or wallet while at school, the mall or even at home.
 Guard your Social Security Number. Don't carry your Social Security card in your wallet or
purse.
 Don't have your Social Security Number printed on your checks or driver's license. Be wary of
businesses or individuals who want your Social Security Number, especially if they request it
by phone or e-mail.
 Start reviewing your credit report through one of the three major credit bureaus at least once a
year. It's not too early to start: www.annualcreditreport.com
 Don't give your computer password out to anyone.
 Keep your personal documents (birth certificates, checking account information, credit cards
and card statements) safe and private.
 If you have a part-time job, sign up for automatic payroll deposits.
 Make a habit of shredding any documents you no longer need that have your name and
account information.
Greater Cleveland Better Business Bureau - 2217 East 9th Street, Suite 200 Cleveland Ohio 44115-1299
216-241-7678- www.bbb.org www.cleveland.bbb.org