Article: Identity theft risk greatest in major cities

News.com reports: Identity theft risk greatest in major cities

“Residents of New York, Detroit and Los Angeles are the most at risk of having their identity stolen, according to new research.” Other states with low rates of identity related fraud are Wyoming, Vermont and Montana.

“Moving is a very dramatic way to reduce your identity risk. It is more appropriate for people to understand the risk of their area and to take the appropriate precautions.”

I’m a bit leary to believe this is entirely true. Consider the far-reaching nature of electronic identity theft. Consumer Bob could live in Wyoming and use his credit card with a company based in New York. If that company falls victim to losing their consumer data files to a thief, Bob in Wyoming is a risk just like anyone else.

Another scenario. Black hat Ted in Los Angeles calls Vermont Martha and manages to con (“social engineer”) info — social security number, checking account number, etc. — out of her over the phone. Ted can then use that info to portray Martha, open a credit card, ship to another address, etc.

My point… Don’t falsely believe that your safe anywhere you live. Take precautions and be vigilant to guard against bad behavior.

-Roland