In these two weeks, we are discussing insurance tips that every college student should know. Many people don’t consider the risk of identity theft for a college student. That’s the topic of this third tip.
Is My College Student Really at Risk?
10 million Americans are victims of identity theft each year. You may be surprised that it can happen to every classification of person — babies, the deceased, hospital patients, poor, middle-class, rich and even college students. This issue is so significant that we are already working on an entire series devoted to this topic.
College Students Can Be More Susceptible to Identity Theft
Identity thieves look for sources of personal information, and colleges provide them with a strong opportunity. This means that college students may be more at risk for identity theft than other people. There are several factors that cause this situation.
- Close living quarters / roommates
- Constant social media interaction
- High volume of internet downloads
- Amount of time spent online
- Potential data management issues of the college or university
- Students register for credit cards and often do not protect their personal information as they do so
- Mail theft at the college P.O.
- Graduating students look for jobs and send out hundreds of resumes as well as filling out applications and submitting resumes online
The list can go on, but you get the idea. It’s all about the potential of identity thieves to get your personal information.
Questions to Ask for Your Insurance Review
Many insurance companies offer identity theft protection in addition to standard homeowners and renters policies. When you call your agent, ask him/her these questions.
- What is my risk and my student’s risk of identity theft?
- How much coverage do I need and what are my options for identity theft insurance?
How Long Will It Take to Get Answers to My Insurance Questions?
You should be able to get most (if not all) of your information with a phone call or two. At Bob Johnson Insurance, we are always ready to provide the answers to your questions. Give us a call at 865-922-3111.