Identity Theft - Is The U.S. Government Making it Happen?

Because my husband doesn't trust our bank not to mess up, he insisted I pay a large bill with money orders. Reluctantly I went to Walmart and asked for a money order. Since the amount I needed was larger than $1,000 they had to get a little bit of information from me. So the nice woman behind the counter then called their office and asked for "the money order book." A long while later a young man laxidazically came towards the counter stopping on the way to socialize with everyone he met. In the mean while, a long line was building up behind me. He took so long I started to yell at him to get a move on it.

Then came the question. This consisted of:

1. Name
2. Date of Birth
3. Driver's License Number
4. Social Security Number
5. Proof of all of the above

Before I told the woman this information I asked the young man to leave. He just didn't look honest, and I didn't like how he was acting.

Also, why should I give out all this information out loud with a long line of who knows how behind me.

I stupidly didn't walk out. I wrote the information down on a paper for the woman.

She told me it was "the law" in order to stop money laundering.

Firstly, I don't think it stops money laundering. If I want to launder money and all these stupid rules are in effect I would do the following:

1. Go to several different money order places to get money orders less than the $1,000 limit.
2. Have several friends each get a money order.

What this law does do is: PUT ME IN DANGER OF HAVING MY IDENTITY STOLEN--BIG TIME.

From now on I will use my checking account, whom by the way did make a $13 mistake on my account by double posting on that same date, or I will do No. 1 or 2 above.

One consoling thought is that I have Identity Theft protection through HomeTec. I personally think these insurers should complain about this new law. There will surely be an increase in claims arising from it.

Take a look at all HomeTec has to offer. Get a free report at: http://tinyurl.com/12uvxt.

Regards,

Helene Solinga