Protect Your Identity From Thieves

Carlos A. Oliveras

Identity theft is a major concern for Mainers age 50-plus, yet many do not take precautions to reduce their risk.

According to a 2014 AARP state survey, 4 out of 10 registered Maine voters age 50-plus have encountered a scam or know someone who has in the past five years.

A 2014 AARP national study of identity theft shows that many Americans are not taking precautions to reduce their risk: 52 percent do not check their free credit report each year, 21 percent do not shred personal documents and 37 percent of those who have smartphones do not use a pass code.

To volunteer to speak to community groups about fraud, contact Japhet Els of AARP Maine by calling 866-554-5380 toll-free or emailing me@aarp.org.