Cumberland Kiwanis
Minutes of November 30, 2009
Speaker: Adam Skinner, Cumberland Federal Bank
Topic: Identity Theft and Credit Fraud
Protection
Mr. Skinner presented an
overview of some common current schemes to perpetrate credit fraud and identity
theft. He circulated an example of
a ÒphishingÓ letter, trying to get funds for purported money transfer from
overseas. He cautioned about
noting obvious errors in the English often used in such letters. In another scheme, a party received a
call asking for funds to get a grandson out of jail in Canada. A quick check found the grandson at
home.
A majority of the victims are
ÒolderÓ persons with 70% over 50 years old. Often with the elderly, a family member is involved.
Bank customers are advised to
notify the bank immediately if their on-line access does not appear normal.
With sources such as
Facebook, criminals often have access to too much personal information. Even Social Security cards should not
be carried in a wallet. Finally, when
in a hotel, the electronic key should always be returned to reception, since
the cards often contain information such as credit card numbers.
Several questions were taken
on a range of concerns, including card holder liability incase of fraud or
theft.