Identity Theft and the Government -- Your Worst Nightmare
Does the government play a role in helping with identity theft? Find out how to prevent it
Security lapses from the federal, state, and local government are putting you at risk for identity theft. While Americans are sitting at home trusting the government to keep their personal information safe, serious breaches are occurring. Learn how it happens and what to do about it.
Government security leaks
Investigation has shown that the government is the source of one out of five ID breaches. This number is astounding. The very agency that we trust to protect our personal information and the agency that we have no choice about giving our information to makes us vulnerable. How?
-- Publicly displaying social security numbers online
-- Local court records being posted with personal information as a result of traffic tickets and other court proceedings
-- Lax or non-existent security software on computer networks containing personal information
Here's where some of the breaches occurred:
Department of Veterans Affairs - 28 million records stolen
Internal Revenue Service - 2,359 records stolen
Transportation Security Administration - 100,000 records lost
City of Savannah, GA - 8,000 records of personal information of drivers caught on red-light cameras displayed online
State of Ohio - 1.3 million records with taxpayer data stolen
This information may be shocking, but not isolated. These breaches occur on a regular basis at the federal, state, and local level.
Prevent identity theft - What to do
In short, become annoying. We all know how difficult it is to deal with the government; unfortunately, the squeaky wheel gets the grease. Here are some ways you can become persistent in making changes in the government security process.
1. Federal agencies are now installing encryption software on all laptops and using security controls. Push for action at the state level as well.
2. Social security numbers are being removed from veteran's benefit cards but remain on Medicare cards. Contact Consumers Union and request change.
3. Contact the court clerk's office to see if court records get posted online or in local newspapers with social security numbers listed. Make your city officials aware of this and get it changed.
4. Contact your U.S. Representative and push for a federal level person to oversee personnel reforms and security protection.
Your best protection against identity theft is to be aware. Don't take for granted that "official" agencies handle your information in a professional manner. Ask questions and be persistent in making changes.