Identity theft is the fastest growing crime in our country today. Many victims remain unaware that they have fallen prey to this new breed of criminal until their credit is severely damaged from fraudulent, unpaid accounts.

Guarding your personal information is key to prevention. Criminals often call their victims and obtain account information, driver license numbers, and Social Security numbers by posing as merchants, financial institutions, or even law enforcement. Another common practice is stealing mail, or sorting through trash, for information they can use to access the accounts you already have, and to create new accounts for their use.

What you can do:

With so much of your personal information available, it is nearly impossible to eliminate the risk of identity theft- but you can take steps to limit it. For example:

1. NEVER give your Social Security number, account number, or PINs to anyone over the telephone or via e-mail requests. First Flight will never initiate a request for this type of information and you should be wary of anyone who does.
2. Use unique passwords- and change them regularly. Be sure to vary your choices and make changes to these passwords approximately twice per year. Be sure never to write your passwords down.
3. Shred all of your important or personal documents. This includes unsolicited credit card applications, paid bills, expired credit cards, unused checks, deposit slips, etc.
4. Do not leave outgoing mail in your mailbox. Use online payment systems, like First Flight’s Bill Pay, to pay your bills. Use electronic bill systems and statement vendors whenever possible.
5. Review your credit report regularly to spot suspicious activity. You can obtain a free credit report, once a year, by visiting www.annualcreditreport.com, by calling 1-877-322-8228 or by mailing your request to Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.