Alaska to Roll Out New Identity Theft Law

   

Posted: Jun 23, 2009

More Americans are concerned about the threat of identity theft, and even though many take precautions, it's reassuring to know that the government is taking an interest in preventing such fraud.

In Alaska, for example, the Personal Information Protection Act (HB 65) is set to become a state law as of July 1, 2009.

This new legislation aims to protect Alaskans from identity theft and other fraudulent activity. It was signed into law by representative John Coghill and senator Gene Therriault, both of North Pole.

Among other things, the new law allows citizens to freeze their credit reports if they feel someone is using their information fraudulently.

HB 65 also requires businesses and government organizations to let the public know if their systems have been breached and the data compromised.

Therriault said that Alaskans should feel more secure because "we will finally have laws that will help you protect yourself and your personal information," after July 1.

However, all Americans can benefit from monitoring their credit report in order to ensure that their information isn't being fraudulently used. Safely storing credit and debit cards as well as unique personal information further protects individuals from identity thieves.