The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, the State Police and the Department of Transportation today unveiled an updated "Identity Theft Action Plan" Web site to help consumers prevent, and recover from, identity theft.
The Web site, www.identitytheftactionplan.com , offers resources for consumers and law enforcement. A companion brochure includes a checklist allowing consumers to write down and quickly access their credit card, bank and driver's license information. The checklist should be stored in a secure location, such as a lockbox.
"These are vital tools that all Pennsylvanians can use to fight back against identity theft," said Walter M. Phillips Jr., chairman of the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency. "As someone who has experienced identity theft, I understand the frustration and fear that can follow such a crime. Our combined efforts are designed to help consumers avoid identity theft and also help victims repair any damage to their identity or credit."
The Identity Theft Resource Center reports 30 million Americans have become victims of identity theft in the past five years. This crime has surpassed drug trafficking as the top crime in the nation, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.
"If you suspect that you've been the victim of identity theft, act quickly to contact police," said State Police Commissioner Frank E. Pawlowski. "The ID Theft Action Plan explains all the steps you should take."
"In our fast-paced, high tech society, it can take mere moments for someone to steal another person's identity, which may result in long-lasting repercussions for the victim. While PennDOT has taken steps to safeguard such information, it is equally important that individuals remain vigilant in protecting their identity. The ID Theft Action Plan is one way Pennsylvanians can be proactive," said PennDOT Deputy Secretary Kurt Myers.
The ID Theft Action Plan brochure will be available at PennDOT's Driver License Centers, at State Police stations, and also online at www.identitytheftactionplan.com. Copies may also be obtained by contacting PCCD at 717-705-0888.
For more information about PCCD, visit www.pccd.state.pa.us.
CONTACT: Tara Mead, PCCD
(717) 265-8470
Linette Quinn, PSP
(717) 783-5556
Danielle Klinger, PennDOT
717-787-0485
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