Combating Identity Theft

Recommendation #17

FCC Chapter: 4.17

Status: In progress

The federal government, led by the Federal Trade Commission, should put additional resources into combating identity theft and fraud and help consumers access and utilize those resources, including bolstering existing solutions such as OnGuard Online.

• Put more resources into OnGuard Online. The federal government should put additional resources into OnGuard Online, ensuring that it is easily accessible to consumers and provides them with information on risks, solutions and who they can contact for further action. Federal agencies should connect their existing online websites to OnGuard Online and direct consumers to its resources.
• Maintain and publicize a database of agencies with responsibility. The FTC should maintain and publicize
• a database of agencies responsible for identity theft and fraud information, with clear information and directions available to consumers.
• Continue education efforts around identity theft and fraud. The federal government should continue educational efforts that clarify for consumers and businesses that personal information should only be collected when necessary and that entities should take reasonable measures to protect information from unauthorized access.
• Encourage broadband service providers to link to OnGuard Online. All agencies should encourage broadband service providers to link to OnGuard Online to direct potential victims of identity theft or fraud to necessary resources.