BBB Offers Small Businesses Advice On Preventing Identity Theft

The Council of Better Business Bureaus (BBB) and the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) are encouraging people and small business owners in the U.S. To fight identity theft by taking part in the 3rd Annual Protect Your Identity Week (PYIW), October 17-23.

Identity theft continues to theft continues to be a growing problem; the number of victims in the U.S. Reached 11.1 million in 2009, a 12.5 percent increase over the previous year, according to Javelin Strategy and Research. There are threats both online and offline, but there are steps to take to protect against identity theft and limit the damage.

As part of the 3rd annual Protect Your Identity Week, consumers and small business owners can take advantage of:

 More than 150 events taking place in communities across the country, most offering educational workshops, credit report reviews, and shredding.  All events are free and open to the public. Some locations will also provide safe electronic disposal for mobile phones and computer equipment.

Easy to follow tips and resources are available online at www.ProtectYourIDNow.org, where consumers can learn how to fight identity theft and data breaches. Advice in Spanish is also available at www.cuidesuidentidad.org.

A self-assessment quiz at www.ProtectYourIDNow.org to determine your personal risk of identity theft.

Daily blogs from nationally known ID theft expert and McAfee consultant, Robert Siciliano.

“Fighting identity theft is a constant battle and the attacks can come at you from all fronts,” said Stephen A. Cox, president and CEO of the Council of Better Business Bureaus.

“Because we are all potential victims, it’s important that we all take steps to fight identity theft and Protect Your Identity Week is a great place to start. You can participate in a free shredding event to protect yourself now, and check out the educational events and online resources to protect yourself in the future.”