Columnist Ruthe Deskin: ID theft can happen to anyone

Ruthe Deskin

Thursday, Jan. 15, 2004 | 8:27 a.m.

"Who steals my purse steals trash; 'tis something, nothing; 'Twas mine, 'tis his, and has been a slave to thousands; But he that filches from me my good name Robs me of that which not enriches him, And makes me poor indeed." -- William Shakespeare

There's a rather silly Citi credit card ad running on television that represents people who have been victims of identity theft -- what Shakespeare would have called "filching my good name."

The ads are somewhat humorous, but the subject is no laughing matter. It reveals a rather novel and disturbing crime wave that has emerged in our society, where unscrupulous characters can steal our good name, literally.

The methods are often quite simple, so easy that any of us can be victimized, especially those who live in gated communities where one would expect crime to be non-existent.

Pilfering of mail has caused the removal of mailboxes in some localities and people are warned about shredding written materials, where signatures are easily copied.

More sophisticated approaches are possible through new technologies including the Internet, e-mail and cell phones.

Once your identity winds up in the hands of some thief, it is exasperating, frustrating and costly to try to clear your name.

You have a great opportunity to learn more about identify theft. Metro is sponsoring a session led by Lt. Steve Franks, commander of Metro's Fraud and Financial Unit, and Sgt. Ed Kravatz, supervisor of Metro Fraud Details.

The affair is scheduled for Jan. 24 at the Henderson Community Room (Valley Auto Mall). You will be told how to avoid becoming a victim and what to do in case you are victimized.

Pre-registration is suggested. Call 735-4775 to enroll. It is free.

There aren't enough Myron Leavitts to fill the need for honest, conscientious public servants.

The news that Nevada Supreme Court Justice Leavitt died was a shock to friends and admirers. It was a great loss to the state, the legal profession and his host of family and friends.

Judge Myron Leavitt served us well and will not soon be forgotten.

The first time I met Dr. Carol Harter, president of UNLV, I was impressed with her enthusiasm and intelligence.

After nine years in a tough job, she continues to impress. I haven't always agreed with some of her policies, but my respect for her ability to guide our young people has not faltered.

Dr. Harter took charge of a university that was in a sad state nine years ago. The job hasn't been easy, but her enthusiasm and commitment are as alive today as they were when she first arrived on the scene.

The name Hank Thornley was well known several years back as he ruled the airwaves as one of the city's best news anchors. Thornley served as a city commissioner, was actively engaged in promoting Las Vegas, helped with charitable organizations and was a solid citizen.

Today, I congratulate him on a far greater success.

Hank Thornley and his lovely wife, Marian, recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.

And that is something of which to be proud.

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