Protecting Yourself

In many ways, identity theft and identity fraud are the most dangerous threat to any financial portfolio. Everything from mortgage rates to credit card interest are based on information associated with your identity and you have to do anything and everything you can to protect it. At some point, you may be faced with a situation involving your rights as a consumer. This information will help you make sure that your good name stays that way!

• A Child’s Stolen Identify Can Lead to Bankruptcy

  Your kid thinks every penny found on the sidewalk is priceless—how can she possibly be bankrupt? Yet here’s the sobering fact: a child may be 51 times more likely than an adult to have her identity stolen, which can lead to bankruptcy. One study examined 40,000 profiles of children and found 10% had “tainted” identities—meaning 4,000 of those kids have gun licenses, mortgages, car loans or drivers’ licenses.

• E-Bills and You: Are You Overpaying?

  It’s important to check your monthly bills for errors – otherwise you could be paying for services or products you never received!

• What are my Consumer Credit Rights?

  Worried that your employer can take a look at your credit file whenever they feel like it? Well, you shouldn't be. Yes, employers can request a copy of your credit report. But not whenever they want, and not without your permission. Federal law carefully regulates how information about your credit can be used. The two most important laws for you to know about are the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA) and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).

• Better Business Bureau - When Reputation Matters

  New to the area? Trying a new business? Having trouble resolving a problem? The BBB can help you find reputable companies with which to do business.

• Beware of Identity Theft

  Identity theft, or ID theft, is becoming increasingly more prevalent in our society. But what is identity theft and how can it be prevented?

• Beware Of Fraudulent Companies And Scams

  Don't be a victim of fraud. Learn how to protect your credit and your good name.

• Dealing with Debt Collectors - Know Your Rights

  When struggling to get out of debt, it's likely that you may cross paths with a collection agency at some point - a third party agency hired by your creditor to collect on your debt. Some collectors are more aggressive than others. It's important to know your rights as a consumer so that you don't fall victim to an aggressive collector employing unscrupulous methods. If you have past due accounts, it's important to know how to effectively deal with collectors and what recourse you have when confronted with overly aggressive tactics.

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