Identity theft survey results: Consumers need more education and help
Experian launches IdentityWorks(SM), a comprehensive product to detect, protect and resolve identity theft and fraud; survey underscores consumer need
COSTA MESA, Calif., May 15, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- News of data breaches and the risks of identity theft and fraud persist, but consumers' vigilance and awareness haven't kept pace. A national survey by Experian, the world's leading global information services company, revealed that not only is America's collective guard down, but people feel they are at a disadvantage when it comes to identity theft. The survey results coincide with Experian's national launch of IdentityWorksSM, a comprehensive set of identity theft protection products offering consumers a powerful and user-friendly array of features, including Experian CreditLock and extensive dark web monitoring. IdentityWorks helps consumers recognize potential identity fraud and respond to it, arming them with credit monitoring and alerts, and credit reports and scores — which are often the first indicators of identity theft and fraud. This new product extends well beyond credit information to include dark web monitoring and alerts, and noncredit transaction monitoring (bank account, Social Security number, change of address, etc.) to detect when a consumer's personal information is actively marketed on the web or abused in noncredit transactions. IdentityWorks also includes Experian CreditLock, giving consumers real-time access control to their Experian credit file. In addition to the expertise and assistance of fraud resolution specialists, the product also provides the peace of mind of up to $1 million in identity theft insurance.1 Concerned about the threat and the hassle While 84 percent of respondents acknowledge being concerned about the security of personal information online, nearly two-thirds (64 percent) agree it's "too much of a hassle to constantly worry about securing personal information online." The majority say staying on top of financial transactions is a challenge (53 percent), and nearly half (48 percent) don't even check their credit reports regularly for errors or suspicious activity. Significant misconceptions about identity theft and fraud "Consumers seem to be tuning out rather than tuning in," said Michael Bruemmer, vice president of identity protection at Experian. "Nothing replaces an individual's active role in identity protection, but there are products — like Experian's new IdentityWorks — that help consumers increase their awareness and provide tools enabling quick response to potential fraud. It becomes less of a burden when consumers set up alerts for their credit cards and bank accounts, as well as alerts to flag credit report changes." In 2016, over 15 million Americans were victims of identity theft, up 16 percent from the previous year.2 "Understanding the risks, being aware of the dark web, and researching what can help monitor and mitigate fraud aren't optional these days. Unfortunately, the survey suggests consumers don't consider these necessities a priority, which makes life easier for fraudsters," added Bruemmer. Key research findings
For information regarding identity protection and dealing with fraud, as well as more details on this survey, visit the Experian Credit Education blog. Consider enrolling in a dark web and credit monitoring product such as Experian IdentityWorks, which can help better track and manage your credit with mobile alerts, lock your Experian credit file with Experian CreditLock, and help mitigate the damage from fraud with access to fraud resolution specialists and up to $1 million in identity theft insurance. Tips to help monitor for fraud and protect personal information
BROLL IS AVAILABLE ON REQUEST (Experian subject matter expert and man on street interviews); please contact Ann Noder at 1 480 263 1557; ann@pitchpublicrelations.com About the survey About Experian We have 17,000 people operating across 37 countries and every day we're investing in new technologies, talented people and innovation to help all our clients maximize every opportunity. We are listed on the London Stock Exchange (EXPN) and are a constituent of the FTSE 100 Index. Learn more at www.experianplc.com or visit our global content hub at our global news blog for the latest news and insights from the company. Experian and the Experian marks used herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of Experian Information Solutions, Inc. Other product and company names mentioned herein are the property of their respective owners. Contact: (Please use this contact to request available b-roll) 1 Identity Theft Insurance is underwritten by insurance company subsidiaries or affiliates of American International Group, Inc. (AIG). 175 Water Street, New York, New York 10038. Please refer to the actual policies for terms, conditions, and exclusions of coverage. Coverage may not be available in all jurisdictions. 2 Javelin Strategy & Research (2017). "Identity Fraud Hits Record High with 15.4 Million U.S. Victims in 2016." Javelin Strategy.
To view the original version on PR Newswire, visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/identity-theft-survey-results-consumers-need-more-education-and-help-300457205.html SOURCE Experian |
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