Identity theft affects more than 10 million people a year and 3.6 million households. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, "Identity theft and identity fraud are terms used to refer to all types of crime in which someone wrongfully obtains and uses another person's personal data in some way that involves fraud or deception, typically for economic gain."
"Few crimes today have made people more anxious than identity theft," said NCPC President and CEO Alfonso E. Lenhardt. "The good news is that identity theft can often be prevented. Educating people on how to reduce their risk of becoming victims is NCPC's top priority. Many of us do not realize how often our everyday actions can put us at risk."
The initiative launched today is in partnership with the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB)and funded by the U.S. Department of Justice. NCPC's identity theft campaign aims to help consumers take practical steps to protect their personal information. Last year, NCPC partnered with the NAB to produce three television PSAs that were released in late June at the NAB's 2005 Service to America Gala.
"NAB is pleased to enlist the continuing support of local radio and television stations in curbing the growing threat of identity theft," said NAB President and CEO David K. Rehr. "Broadcasters are uniquely positioned to help educate Americans on this menace to society, and working with our partners at the National Crime Prevention Council, the NAB will use all of our resources to help mobilize citizens into taking protective actions."
