“The thief does not come except to steal, to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” John 10:10 NKJV

Identity Theft

On Saturday evening, I was preparing to watch a movie on Disney Plus with my grandkids when I was interrupted by a barrage of phone calls and text messages. It seemed as if everyone on my email contact list was reaching out to see if I had sent a strange email asking if they used Amazon. If they responded, they were given a sad story and asked to send an Amazon gift card to someone for me because my credit card was not working. It was evident to my contacts that my email had been hacked. Anyone who has known me for longer than 10 minutes, can tell you that is not my style. Despite the inconvenience of dealing with the invasion, I was grateful for those who realized this was totally out of character and took the time to notify me.

Because I am a movie buff, I was reminded of the movie, “Identity Theft,” starring Melissa McCarthy and Jason Bateman. McCarthy plays the role of Diana, a Florida resident, who lives a luxurious lifestyle at the expense of Denver resident, Sandy Patterson whose identity she has stolen, played by Bateman. The entire movie is based on Sandy Patterson trying to track down Diana with hopes of clearing his name and restoring his shattered credit rating before his entire life implodes. I must mention that Sandy Patterson is a successful businessman wearing tailored suits working in corporate America. Before the movie ends, Sandy Patterson’s disposition has changed; he becomes an angry, mad man with a disheveled appearance. Ironically, he results to breaking and entering and committing other crimes all to get his name cleared.

It is this time of year, the holiday season, that scammers are at their best. I believe it is their full-time job to swindle and steal from others. As you begin your holiday shopping, please be vigilant and on guard for criminals who are looking to literally steal your identity. In an article titled, “Beware of Identity Theft during Holiday Shopping Season,” American journalist and author, Michelle Singletary offers the following helpful tips:

• Write “check photo ID” in ink on the back of your credit card near the signature.
• While shopping, keep a watch out for people standing nearby who have a cell phone with a camera–someone could easily take a picture of your credit card information.
• Review your credit card statements to check for unfamiliar purchases.
• Don’t be a victim of “phishing” which is when crooks send emails that look as if they come from legitimate companies requesting certain information.
• Purchase a shredder and shred any store receipts with your full credit card number listed on it.
• If you are going to shop online, make sure the site is secure.
• If you suspect that your identity has been stolen, immediately contact your creditors and the three major credit bureaus.

I would like to wish all of you a very happy and safe Thanksgiving!

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