In March we called satellite sales from a promotional flyer to order dish network service. We were asked to provide our social security number and credit card information to a sales representative over the phone in order to obtain service. We used an American Express card which we do not normally use. A few days later there was a charge for E-club, and a Circuit City charge on that credit card about 10 minutes apart. One for 19.95 and one for $495.00 for an Ipod. We did manage to get the charges cancelled and changed the credit card. Unfortunately you can't change your social security number, which was stolen at the same time. The thief has since attempted opening credit cards in our name with my husbands social security number, and they have managed to have their address added to our credit report so they can receive mail in our name. I have contacted Satellite Sales, they say they are investigating, but they have not discontinued the policy of asking for your social security number. They are a sales representative for Dish Network, whom I have also contacted but have had no response from. I have filed a police report in my state of Washington, but have been unsuccesful in getting any one in Maryland to take the report. I was actually told that I should "tell it to someone who cares." The paper work file I have on this one small incident is now over 6 inches thick, in just 7 months. I would suggest that anyone who wants to order any service which requires you to give your social security number, to just say no and abandon the idea! Maybe if we refuse to be forced into supplying personal information we can stop Identity Theft which is said to be the fastest growing crime in America.
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