The Internet is your entrance to the marketplace for the world from the comfort of your home or office. There are safety concerns to address when it comes to identity theft and fraud because organized identity theft groups constantly try to remotely load spyware, malware, Trojan horses, and botnets on victim computers. These programs transmit your keystrokes and other stored computer files back to the thieves.
Information about you is frequently shared with multiple business partners for product offerings, services, and promotions in this digital world. You have choices regarding how much information you want to share with marketing firms, companies, and some government agencies. To help you “opt-out” of information sharing related to credit bureaus, various state departments of motor vehicles, and direct marketers, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) created a website providing information on limiting information sharing and junk mail.
Ever fill out warranty cards? Be careful of the information you provide on warranty cards that come with appliances or electronics, instructing you to complete it and return it to the manufacturer. Often product warranty cards are postcards that, if returned, could potentially expose your information to anyone processing the card. These warranty cards are entered into marketing databases, and in many cases, the data is sold to third parties. It isn’t necessary to submit the product warranty card for the warranty to be in effect because most manufacturers provide limited warranties.
If you learn that you’ve become a victim of identity theft, immediately contact the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union) to let them know about your situation. Next, report the crime to the local police to establish the criminal activity and the facts. It’s important that you obtain a copy of the report from the police because the credit bureaus, credit card companies, and other financial institutions will ask for a copy. Finally, file an identity theft complaint with the FTC. Although the FTC doesn’t conduct criminal investigations, it provides detailed information and assistance to victims to resolve financial and other problems resulting from victimization.
The holidays are the worst time for cyber attacks, identity theft, and fraud. Please stay safe and stay smart. If you have any questions or concerns, please call us at (540) 720-5656.
Amy Anderson joined the ILG Financial team in 2023 as the client relations coordinator. Her responsibilities include scheduling of appointments, annual check-up notifications, and annuity and required minimum distribution assistance. She is a graduate of Harding University with a degree in Computer Information Systems. Amy and her husband have two children and she enjoys reading, crocheting, music and spending time with her family.
Chase Lopez joined the ILG Financial team in 2020 as an advisor. Chase is a 2016 James Madison University graduate with a degree in management. Chase has been trained under the tutelage of Dave Lopez, who is not only the founder and managing member of ILG Financial, but also is Chase’s uncle and godfather. He also enjoys working alongside his cousin, Megan, who is Dave’s daughter. Chase, as a fiduciary, believes in putting his clients interests first, and building out plans for his clients where they can have a happy and fruitful retirement. He married his beautiful wife in February 2022 and both use most of their free time chasing around their little pup, Aurora.
Jessica Carson joined the ILG Financial team in 2018 as an agent. Jessica and her husband have four children, two dogs, 3 barn cats, 5 chickens, and three parakeets. She indeed loves her children and pets! When not at work, Jessica enjoys playing the piano and cello as well as traveling and spending time outside with her family, hiking, fishing, and boating.
Terri Center joined the ILG Financial team in 2019 as client services manager. She handles client records, application processing, and gathering information to provide a professional and friendly experience with all of our clients. Terri is a graduate of Oakland University. She is married and has two children. She enjoys hiking, family time, and puzzle challenging video games. She also likes to share her creativity in her canvas paintings and sewing projects.
Megan Jones joined the ILG Financial team in 2020 as marketing director. Megan and her husband live in Fredericksburg, VA with their German Short Haired Pointer, Gus. Megan is a graduate of Longwood University and holds a degree in communications. Megan is the oldest of Dave Lopez’s three children and not only enjoys working alongside her father, but also with her cousin, Chase, who joined the ILG Financial team in 2020 as an advisor. When not at work, Megan enjoys sitting on the back porch with family and friends enjoying food and music.