Hennepin County Has Tips for Avoiding Target Fiasco, I.D. Theft

By Mike Schoemer

Minneapolis-based Target Corp'sannouncement this week that a security breach may have given hackers access to more than 40 million account numbers has customers seeing, well, red. 

More details on the breach itself can be found here, but investigators really don't have a clue what broke down in Target's theft protection and security systems. Most believe, independently, that the hack might have been an "inside job." 

There are things consumers who used "plastic" at the store between Nov. 27 and Dec. 15 (which is, let's face it, pretty much everyone you know) can do to protect themselves from everything from unwanted purchases to, even worse, identity theft: 

First, Target has released a number for consumers who think they might be impacted. Just call Target at 866-852-8680 and have information ready to share. The lines are secure, and Target will go through receipts and transactions with customers who have questions. 

"The best advice is for consumers to monitor their credit card account for unauthorized charges and contact their bank if they see any such activity," said one Twin Cities law enforcement agent, noting that most banks will cover fraud, and all banks are aware of this incident. "Local law enforcement may also be notified if unauthorized charges appear, too." 

Hennepin County has also included steps consumers can take to protect themselves from identity theft on its website:

Be cautious when sharing your personal information (such as credit cards, Social Security or driver’s license numbers) over the phone, through the mail or online. Verify that your are dealing with a legitimate business.

Be safe online. Do not download a suspicious file or click on a hyperlink to an unfamiliar website.

Limit the number of ID cards, credit cards and checks that you carry. Only carry your Social Security card, birth certificate and/or passport when absolutely necessary.

Guard your checks. Do not leave checks in your car.

Don’t use obvious passwords like your birthdates, Social Security number, phone number or mother’s maiden name.

Keep personal information safe and secure, especially if there are roommates, contractors or others in your home.

Shred any document containing personal information.

Be alert for “shoulder surfers” who stand near ATMs and cell phones to see your ID and PIN numbers.

Review your credit report every year. Monitor accounts,pay attention to billing cycles and any suspicious charges.

The IRS also has a related webpage, the Taxpayers Guide to Identity Theft:

Tips for Preventing Identity Theft

• Shred receipts, credit card applications, financial statements, etc. If not, keep them in a secured place.
• Cut up / shred old credit cards
• Be diligent about checking your bank and credit card statements. Make sure only authorized purchases were made.
• Use a secured (locked) mail box when sending and receiving mail.
• Get a copy of your credit report.
• Protect your social security number.
• Only make purchases from web sites you’re familiar with and that have a secure site.
• Do not give personal information.
• Close accounts you suspect have been tampered with.