50 ways to protect your identity and your credit

the long version

The world of credit is fraught with peril. First, there's the enormous and growing risk of identity theft, which victimized nearly 10 million Americans in 2003 alone. But the quieter risks are just as real: inaccurate credit reports that drive up your interest rates or prevent you from getting loans, fine print in credit agreements that can cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars, 'credit repair' services that only make matters worse. In 25 Ways to Protect Your Identity and Your Credit, consumer finance expert and nationally syndicated radio host Steve Weisman tells you exactly what to watch out for, and how to keep credit disasters from happening to you. Writing in plain English, Weisman reveals how criminals gain access to your credit, bank, or brokerage accounts, open new accounts and take out loans in your name, and how to use the law, technology, and common sense to protect yourself. You'll learn how to recognize 'phishing' scams and dishonest credit counselors, how to understand and eliminate the hidden costs of credit, and much more. Weisman's checklists tell you what to do right now, before you're victimized. And if you've already been attacked, Weisman presents step-by-step techniques, form letters, and affidavits you can use to help restore your credit -- and your good name.