Bankruptcy

Nothing Says ?I Love You? Like Avoiding Identity Theft

By guest-writer

With Valentine?s Day around the corner, many Americans are likely thinking about ways to treat their loved ones, or considering their options for meeting a romantic partner. And in the age of online dating and connections, the Federal Trade Commission has issued a guide for keeping your personal information (and money) safe from identity thieves while you enjoy all Cupid has to offer.

Here?s a look at some of the FTC?s Valentine-specific warnings.

Know the Warning Signs for Valentine?s Day Scams

• Online dating & social networking: Online venues for meeting and interacting with people have ballooned in popularity in the last several years, but that doesn?t mean they?re always safe. The FTC suggests proceeding with caution when engaging in any sort of online relationship, especially if you notice any of these identity theft warning signs. The important thing to keep in mind is not to let your guard down even if you?re feeling particularly sentimental around the holiday.
• Flower delivery scams: Another warning the FTC has issued concerns flower delivery services ? obviously a classic choice for February 14th. According to the FTC, some flower delivery scams involve telemarketers offering their services over the phone for more money than a local florist?s shop would charge. Naturally, that?s not a good deal for anyone. If you?re thinking of sending blossoms to a loved one this year, make sure you know you?re working with a legitimate company and paying a fair price.
• Financial habit compatibility: While financial matters may not seem like the most romantic topic to broach during a Valentine?s dinner, they are important to any serious relationship. Luckily, the FTC offers a fiscal compatibility quiz for partners interested in seeing how their spending, saving and budgeting habits match up. (Hint: offering to do this quiz together for a Valentine?s Day date might not go over well if it?s the most romantic thing you?ve got planned.)
• Magazine subscription and renewal scams: Thinking of giving a gift that your valentine can enjoy all year long? Be careful if you choose a magazine subscription, because some scammers have begun sending phony renewal notices to subscribers in hopes of tricking these people into sending checks they think are to maintain their subscriptions. Instead, visit the web site of the magazine you want to share with your loved one and make sure that web site is a secure place to enter any financial information.

The Relationship between Love & Money

Americans tend to think of love and money as unrelated subjects, but any serious relationship demands a consideration of financial matters from both partners. After all, the stress of debt problems can wreak havoc on a relationship, so show your partner you care by putting financial matters on the table this Valentine?s Day!

Full post as published by The Bankruptcy Blog on February 07, 2011 (boomark / email).