Your Identity Belongs to You. Protect it!

A 2009 survey shows that identity theft is on the rise – and it’s more likely to start with a stolen wallet than an online phishing expedition.

Researchers at Javelin Strategy & Research reported that the number of identity theft cases increased 22 percent to 9.9 million in 2008.

• Crimes of opportunity, such as stolen wallets, represented 43 percent of cases, compared to 33 percent in 2007, indicating an increase in the desperation of criminals.
• Women were 26 percent more likely to be victims of identity theft, reporting a higher incidence of lost or stolen information during purchases in stores.
• Only 11 percent of cases involved online access.

The smartest way to protect yourself from identity theft is to prevent it from happening to you. However, if your identity is stolen, you’ll be able to lessen problems by acting quickly.

1. Call your credit card companies immediately. Explain what happened, and ask where to send a copy of the police report.
2. Call and report to the police. Make several copies of police report.
3. Complete a Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Theft Affidavit and FTC report (call 1-887-ID-THEFT to request the forms).
4. Call your bank. They can place an alert on your Driver's License number and Social Security Number, and freeze your account.
5. Call fraud units of credit report agencies: Experian, Equifax, and Transunion.

Fortunately, identity theft protection is available as an endorsement on most homeowners’ policies at a small cost. For example, Safeco offers Identity Theft Protection for $12 a year to homeowner policy holders. The coverage reimburses certain expenses associated with identity recovery. Customers can also get guidance on how to protect themselves from ID theft before it happens and may receive assistance with identity restoration.

If you’re interested in learning more we are just a call or click away!

GBR Agency, Inc.

607.432.2022

www.gbrobertsagency.com

Don't Get Soaked!

Of all the appliances found in the home, the water heater and washing machine are the most likely to cause serious damage, and cost home owners a bundle.

According to a nationwide analysis by Safeco Insurance, one out of every 10 water-damage claims can be traced back to a malfunctioning hot water tank or washing machine. These two appliances are more likely than Mother Nature to inflict damage on the home.

 “Water is the most common cause of home damage today – even more likely than fire,” said Jim Swegle, vice president of personal property for Safeco Insurance. 

“Americans are spending twice what they were 10 years ago to repair water damage. In most cases, home owners can save themselves a lot of time and money by adding a few simple protective devices and doing routine maintenance. These tasks usually take just a few minutes and the parts often cost less than $20,” Swegle said.

Some water damage is covered under homeowners insurance, but some damage is not, he noted. Home owners who fail to maintain appliances and plumbing systems may face thousands of dollars in repair costs and weeks of invasive home repairs.

Simple fixes, such as installing a $10 stainless steel hose or replacing an aging water heater, could save a homeowner thousands of dollars and a lot of hassle.

But home owners can take simple steps to reduce their chances of water damage.

• Replace old water heaters. Water heaters do damage when they get too old and the tank rusts and bursts. Replace your tank once a decade. Today's energy-efficient systems also will be cheaper to operate.

• Stainless steel hoses: Inspect standard rubber or plastic hoses used with washing machines, refrigerators and dishwashers and consider replacing them with stainless steel-braided or mesh hoses. Worn-out hoses with kinks, cracks or bulges need to be replaced immediately. A $10 braided steel hose can save thousands.

 

• Turn it off before you leave. Don't leave dishwashers and washing machines running if you leave the house.

• Check attic air conditioners. At least once a year, go up to the attic or roof to check these appliances before they wear out. Look for wear and tear and loose connections.

 

A full list of water prevention tips for consumers is available at www.safeco.com/drip.

Questions? We're just a call or a click away!

www.gbrobertsagency.com

607.432.2022