METLife Enhances Travel Assistance With Identity Theft Solutions In Group Life Portfolio

MetLife, the largest U.S. life insurer and a leading provider of employee benefits, announced the enhancement of its Travel Assistance offering by adding Identity Theft Solutions as a standard benefit.

Offered in partnership with, and administered by, AXA Assistance USA, Inc. Travel Assistance is an optional feature available with MetLife’s Accidental Death and Dismemberment products and Business Travel Accident insurance – all part of MetLife’s comprehensive portfolio of group life products.

The Federal Trade Commission estimates that more than 8 million adults have their identities stolen each year. "Restoring one’s good name after an identity theft can be a stressful and complicated process," notes Graham Cox, vice president, Life Product Management, MetLife. "That’s why access to educational resources to help prevent identity theft is so important. Should it occur, having personal assistance during this challenging time can help employees expedite a resolution. Identity Theft Solutions can help employers optimize the value of their group life benefits, while providing a living benefit that employees can use today.

Identity Theft Solutions provides tips and education on how to prevent identity theft and personal guidance in the event that it takes place. These services are accessible to employees and their dependents, when at home or traveling, by calling a toll-free number found on their Travel Assistance and Identity Theft Solutions ID card. Employees and their family members will have access to:

Education and Protection

• Educational materials that inform employees about the risks of identity theft and how to prevent an occurrence

• Assistance in obtaining complimentary credit reports used to detect fraudulent activity<BR>• Help placing "fraud alerts" with credit bureaus

Personal Guidance

A personal case manager will assist with the following in the event of an identity theft:

• Taking inventory of lost/stolen items and directing participants to the appropriate contacts for resolution

• Filing and obtaining police and credit reports

• Contacting credit or fraud departments, government agencies and local law enforcement

• Filing complaints with the Federal Trade Commission