BBB recommends tips to college students

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) - The Better Business Bureau is recommending steps that college students should take to protect themselves from identity theft.

According to the 2010 Identity Fraud Survey Report released by Javelin Strategy and Research, more than 11 million people became victims of identity theft in 2009. Young adults 18-24 took the longest to detect identity theft when compared to other age groups, an average of 132 days. Subsequently the average cost of $1,156, was roughly five times more than amount lost by other groups.

Identity thieves don’t care if you’re a struggling student and don’t have a penny to your name; sometimes all they want is to exploit your clean credit record. Young adults that establish good habits for monitoring and detecting fraud are laying a path that will help create a healthy financial road for the rest of their lives.

The BBB recommends that college-bound students take the following seven steps to fight identity theft on campus:

-School mailboxes are not always secure and can often be easily accessed in a dorm or apartment. To combat sticky fingers in the mailroom, have sensitive mail sent to a permanent address such as the parents’ home or a PO Box.

-Important documents should be stored under lock and key- such as a filing cabinet. This includes social security card, passport, and bank and credit card statements. Shred any paper documents that have sensitive financial information rather than just tossing them out. Yes, there are dumpster divers and they do find your information. Also shred any credit card offers that come in the mail. In fact, BBB recommends you call the number 888-567-8688 and opt out from receiving credit card offers in the mail. You will be asked for your Social Security number, but it’s a safe bet you are making the right choice.

-Never loan your credit or debit card to anyone, even if they are a friend. Also just say no if your friend wants you to cosign for a loan or financing for items like a TV.

-Make sure your computer has up-to-date antivirus and spyware software. Always install any updates and patches to your computer’s operation system or browser software which help keep your computer safe from any new advances by identity thieves online.

-Always check your credit or debit card statements closely for any suspicious activity. The sooner you identify any potential fraud, the less you’ll suffer in the long run.

-When shopping on unfamiliar web sites, always check the company out first with the BBB online. Also look for the BBB Accredited Business seal along with other trust seals; click on the seals to confirm they are legitimate.

-Check your credit report at least once a year with all three reporting bureaus for any suspicious activity or inaccuracies. You can do this for free by visiting www.annualcreditreport.com

For more advice on fighting fraud and managing personal finances visit the BBB online at www.bbb.org/us/consumer-tips-finance .

Students should become familiar with checking out BBB business reviews on companies they are considering doing business with. It’s an easy process: go to www.bbb.org and you can easily pull up a company’s report.