CyberScout, an industry leader in identity management, identity theft education and resolution services, announced here today the launch of the first three of its ten "Life Stages" programs. Each program offers consumers expert one-on-one solutions and services for specific periods of life when they are especially vulnerable to identity theft. 

Medical Identity Services helps victims resolve the array of problems after their identities have been stolen and used by someone to obtain medical treatment. This service includes helping victims navigate the confusing web of procedures, policies, and laws associated with the healthcare industry. 

Estate Identity Services is designed to help a surviving spouse safeguard the identity and financial records of a deceased loved one, including assistance with gathering of critical documents and notifications. 

Identity Relocation Services helps consumers minimize the risk and/or recover from the loss or theft of sensitive data or documents during a move. 

The new programs will benefit customers, policyholders, members and employees of CyberScout's institutional clients, providing them with access to the company's expert fraud specialists and vital tools that can help them resolve and manage the risk of identity theft. 

Identity theft is growing at an alarming rate, according to Privacy Rights Clearinghouse and Gartner, Inc. Since January 2005, more than 159 million personal records have been exposed in data breaches, and experts agree that there is no end in sight. The crime is also evolving rapidly, continually showing up in new forms and seeking more vulnerable targets. As a result, people in specific life stages and situations face their own special problems and risks. 

CyberScout's "Life Stages" programs were designed to help consumers cope with these specific problems and vulnerabilities. All ten Life Stages programs will be released over the next few months. In addition to the three announced today, the programs address the specific vulnerabilities of children; military service members; travelers; victims of natural disaster; and those affected by a data security breach. 

"Identity theft is already ‘the' crime of the 21st century," said company President Steve Christenson. "CyberScout has always focused on the unique needs of each individual. Likewise, Life Stages takes a customized approach to helping those who are at greatest risk and face the greatest challenges." 

"Our proactive approach and one-on-one resolution put consumers first and set a new standard for the industry," said Adam Levin, Chairman of CyberScout and former Director of the New Jersey Consumer Affairs Division. "Now, by providing specialized identity management programs that focus on the specific needs of those most vulnerable to this crime, CyberScout is once again breaking new ground on consumers' behalf." 

CyberScout provides an expert personal advocate to assist identity theft victims through all of the challenges of restoring one's identity. The company's resolution service is designed expressly to reduce the time, stress, financial impact and other costs suffered by identity theft victims, and to simplify the process for all involved.