News & Resources

back to news

Five-hundred thousand safe and secure: Nationwide's ID Theft Assist program exceeds half million-policyholder mark

Columbus, OH: October 29, 2007 - According to a Federal Trade Commission identity theft survey report, identity theft victimizes 10 million Americans each year, costing $53 billion and 300 hours annually and $500 and 30-60 hours per victim annually.

To combat the fastest growing crime in the United States, Nationwide has joined forces with ID Theft Assist (ITA) since 2005 to provide consumers with an optional rider that helps them recover quickly and easily from potential security threats. More than 500,000 Nationwide policyholders have opted for the voluntary policy to secure their financial futures.

"This touchstone reaffirms the significance of identity theft in today’s society," said Deidre Abbitt, Property Product Consultant at Nationwide. "Consumers are looking for guidance and support."

ID Theft Assist is a premium, all-inclusive solution providing comprehensive aid to victims of identity theft and the organizations that support them. This program greatly reduces the number of hours spent restoring the credit histories of victims. With real-time access to credit records, Id Theft Assist Recovery Specialists take rapid steps both to remove fraudulent activity and avert any further damage.

ITA takes the burden from the customer by contacting the necessary parties, such as banks and credit institutions, completing legal paperwork and making the appropriate phone calls to amend the identity theft.

The product also allows customers a unique, free feature that locks and unlocks their credit. This allows them to close the credit report to prying eyes and reopen long enough to apply for credit when desired.

"Our customers can rest assured knowing they’re covered financially if their identity is compromised, and that experts will handle the task of restoring their identities," said Abbitt. "They won't be left alone."