and use junk mail filters to keep from attracting potential problems. Be smart with e-mail. If you want an e-mail address for use in chat rooms or to chase free offers, open a free account with Hotmail or Yahoo for that purpose. Information you provide when getting an e-mail or Internet account can often be accessed by others—use the free secondary address so individuals don’t have access to your primary account's information.
Phishing, an attempt to lure unsuspecting Internet users to bogus Web sites, is very common. Don’t respond to links in e-mails that represent a way to correct or verify account information. They could lead you to “counterfeit” sites that capture sensitive information as you unwittingly enter it. These Web sites are good copies, using logos, colors and styles of the real thing, so it’s easy to be misled. Know the e-policies of companies you do business with and only go to known Web addresses—don’t click on any link in an e-mail unless you are sure you trust the sender.
Protect Yourself
Federal legislation went into effect in 2004 stiffening penalties for those convicted of “aggravated identity theft,” but there are always those who try to beat the system. Protect yourself and your reputation; be diligent, be aware and deliberately protect how and where your personal information is being handled on a regular basis.
N.C. Attorney General Roy Cooper makes it clear, “Keep your credit and your good name safe by never giving out sensitive information to someone you don't know. Be sure you know who you're dealing with and why they need the information before you share any of your important financial information."
Credit Reporting Agencies
