Low tech identity theft con still a big problem

[TechBear_Seattle]

I subscribe to the journal of the National Notary Association. Of the big issues of the NNA is identity theft and how notaries are an important part of protecting people having their identity stolen.

The November issue of the Journal has an article outlining a low tech approach to identity theft that is resurging, now that more people are wary of email phishing and other high tech approaches. This "Jury Duty Scam" works like this:

You get a call from someone claiming to be from the county courthouse. He says that you've skipped out on your civic obligation by failing to show up for jury duty and that a warrant will be issued for your arrest pursuant to county or state law. The caller may even have Caller ID spoofing equipment (cheap to buy and easy to use) so that it looks like he is actually calling from the courthouse.

You, of course, protest that you never received a notice to appear. The "clerk" acknowledges that a mistake might have been made and offers to help clear up the situation. To verify your identity against his documents, he asks for your full legal name, birthdate, Social Security number and possibly other personal information. If you comply, congraduations! You have been ripped off but good.

From the article:

The FBI reports that the scam's bold simplicity may be what makes it so effective. Facing the unexpected threat of arrest, victims are caught off guard and may be quick to disclose information to defuse the situation.... "The trick is putting people on the defensive, then reeling them back in with the promise of a clean slate."

Similar scams involve alleged calls from a collection agency or a credit card company. The call begins with a threat of legal action for overdue debts, then offer a chance to "clear the matter up" if you provide identifying information.

The article states that senior citizens are especially vulnerable.

According to the FBI, this stems from being raised in an era of more trust and civility. Another factor is that seniors are sometimes concerned that relatives may think they can't manage their own affairs and try to handle situations without consulting others for help.

I would link to the article, but it doesn't appear online.