by Chloe Jones

Created on: April 28, 2007   Last Updated: May 02, 2007

The Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to identity theft. It provides resources to help victims of identity theft clear their names and credit histories. They to try prevent identity theft by providing consumer resources such as current scam alerts and tips that people should follow to protect their identities. ITRC also works with law enforcement organizations to assist them with investigations into identity theft.

ITRC was founded in 1999 by an identity theft victim. Linda Foley's identity was stolen by her employer, who used the information to obtain a cell phone and credit cards. Having experienced the financial and emotional toll of identity theft first hand, Linda and her husband Jay formed ITRC to help other victims. The person who stole Linda's identity was convicted about seven years after the theft first occurred. Unfortunately, criminals who steal identities are often never caught, much less convicted.

Perhaps because Linda's identity was stolen at her place of employment, the ITRC provides consulting services to help businesses properly handle sensitive personal information. These services are particularly timely, considering the breaches of millions of customer financial records by retailers such as DSW Shoes and TJX, which owns TJ Maxx and Marshall's.

In this digital age, identity theft is a growing crime that could strike anyone. ITRC provides helpful resources to protect people from identity theft as well as to assist those who have already been victimized. These resources can be accessed on their web site at idtheftcenter.org.

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