Identity Thieves Target the Deceased
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Business -> subcategory Home Based Business.
Identity Thieves Prey on the Deceased
Summary
Criminals exploit obituaries and other sources to gather personal details for fraud.Key Points
Identity thieves are relentless, targeting even those who have passed away to commit fraud using stolen personal information.Crafty criminals often search for details about the deceased in obituaries, genealogy websites, and death certificates. With information like full name, address, and date of birth, they may obtain new Social Security cards, driver’s licenses, or even loans and credit cards in the deceased's name.
The FDIC Consumer News offers the following advice to families after a loved one passes away:
1. Limit Details in Obituaries:
- Avoid including the deceased's exact birth date. Instead, consider mentioning only the birth year. This reduces the risk of identity theft, according to David Nelson, a fraud specialist at the FDIC's Financial Crimes Section.
2. Omit Sensitive Information:
- Consider leaving out a wife’s maiden name. Many financial institutions use a mother's maiden name as a security measure. Publicizing this information could enable identity thieves to exploit it.
3. Handle Accounts Promptly:
- Obtain several copies of the death certificate and close bank, brokerage, and credit card accounts.
4. Seek Professional Guidance:
- Consult an attorney or accountant for advice on managing and transitioning accounts for survivors.
5. Notify Relevant Organizations Quickly:
- Report the death to the fraud departments of the three major credit bureaus and the Social Security Administration. This step helps prevent identity thieves from assuming the deceased's identity before settling the estate.
Nelson emphasizes, “It’s crucial to prevent identity theft before estate distributions are made, as fraudulent credit could complicate the process.”
Targeting the deceased for identity theft is exceptionally unscrupulous. Although it's not something usually considered during times of grief, staying vigilant in today’s world is essential.
By taking these precautions, families can help protect against criminals preying on the deceased.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Identity Thieves Target the Deceased.
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