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Identity theft is a growing criminal problem in most parts of the country, including Los Angeles. The Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act (FACTA) of 2003 defines identity theft as “a fraud committed using the identifying information of another person”. Victims of identity theft are persons whose identities – which include their names, addresses, Social Security numbers, and driver's licenses – have been used to acquire credit, services, and goods without their consent. The Los Angeles police department has identified possible sources of personal information used by identity thieves, including poorly shredded documents found in dumpsters and trash cans. In an identity theft case, an employer may be held liable if it can be shown that they did not take adequate measures to protect an employee's personal data, which led to the identity theft. This makes the services of a reliable Los Angeles document shredding service provider important to any business. Identity theft can be as simple as the criminal using the victim's credit card information to purchase goods online. It can also involve using the victim's Social Security number to apply for a credit card, which the thief then uses to procure goods and services. In the worst possible case, the identity thief can take over a victim's financial life completely, and use the victim's personal information to obtain loans, mortgages, and credit accounts. Individuals have to be constantly vigilant in protecting their personal data, especially when transacting over the Internet. As much as possible, avoid posting personal information online, particularly on public sites. Likewise, watch out for scams that ask for your personal information on the pretext of a complying with the requirements of your bank or credit company. The FACTA law has also required employers to protect their employees' personal information. Dumpster diving, or the act of scavenging for materials from dumpsters and trash cans, is not considered illegal, making it necessary for businesses to thoroughly destroy sensitive documents before disposing of them. Hiring a reputable Los Angeles document shredding specialist is a good way to ensure the proper destruction of these documents. If you believe you have become an identity theft victim, you need to inform a credit bureau and close your personal accounts immediately. You also have to report the crime to the police. For more information on identity theft, visit electronics.howstuffworks.com/how-to-tech/how-to-protect-against-identity-theft.htm.
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