August 2007

Efforts to Combat Identity Theft

Many businesses have access to the personal information of employees and customers. Careless storage and maintenance of Social Security numbers, credit card information and other personal data often results in identity theft, one of the most rapidly growing crimes in America.

Use the following recommended preventative meas ures to check your business’ security, and consider what other protection you might need.

• Keep personnel files locked away in an area where few have access. Those with access should have special qualifications (years of service to the company, bonded, insured, etc).
• Wherever possible, remove or shield key personal information. When such information is found in computer systems, on invoices, on receipts, etc., measures should be taken to pre vent unauthorized viewing.
• Offer free credit-fraud alert services to all current and former employees.
• Consider identity theft insurance, which will help your business in case of a breach.

What personal information does your business collect and store? What security measures have you taken to prevent identity theft from occurring in your office? Practice good pe rsonal data security and contact us for more information on insuring against crimes at the workplace.