Affinion Security in Norwalk has found that college students are especially easy targets for identity theft.
According to Affinion, a provider of identity protection services, college students are especially attractive targets for identity thieves because they have unblemished credit records, making it easier for thieves to take out loans in their name. Javelin Research & Strategy said ages 18-24 are more likely than other age groups to be severely injured or highly affected when they are victims of identity theft.
“Our goal is to help educate consumers and make it more difficult for identity thieves to succeed,” said Tom Rusin, president and CEO of Affinion Security Center. “While our services can help students protect themselves through the detection and resolution of identity thefts, there are some simple steps that students can take to minimize their risk.”
Rusin said many students also may not realize the potential for fraud and do not guard personal information as closely as they should.
“Student’s Social Security Numbers may be listed on everything from dorm identification cards to report cards, making it easy for this information to fall into the hands of thieves,” said Rusin. “Universities and colleges have also come under attack from hackers in recent years as the value of the information they store has been recognized.”
According to the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse, approximately 100 universities and colleges have reported data breaches since 2005.
Rusin recommended a paper shredder as a back-to-school must. He also recommended checking credit card statements regularly, creating strong passwords, backing up your computer and remaining aware of identity theft as a possibility.
