Christine Alcorn

Christine Alcorn of State Treasurer Judy Baar Topinka's office shared this simple advice with more than 100 people, mostly seniors, during a session this week on fraud and identity theft.

Alcorn told those gathered at the Boone County Council on Aging's Keen Age Center that fraud has become a $40 billion a year problem in the United States.

The favorite targets of those who commit fraud are seniors who often are vulnerable, home during the day to receive phone calls and have amassed more wealth than younger victims.

Alcorn's No. 1 rule: Avoid giving any personal information over the phone, especially Social Security numbers or bank account information.

Alcorn said those looking to commit fraud or theft will try to extract personal information from you, such as "How many grandkids do you have?"or "Are you a veteran?," as they seek ways to befriend you.

Identity theft is a crime in which someone sets up accounts in your name and runs up charges.

"It can ruin your credit," Alcorn said.

Other tips for people looking to avoid being taken by phone or in person:

* Don't take money from your bank account if a stranger calls you.

* Shred all personal documents and information, burn them or get rid of them in such a way no one can read them.

...
Christine Alcorn, Senior Financial Coordinator for Northern Illinois for the State Treasurer Office, talks to about 100 seniors at the Keen Age Center in Belvidere Thursday about identity theft and money scams involving seniors.> View full-sized photo

Home | Local News | Sports | Business | Entertainment | Classifieds | Jobs | Cars | Real Estate

Copyright © 2001Rockford Register Star.Use of this site indicates your agreement to the Terms of Service (updated 08/06/01).