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All this talk about identity theft and credit fraud may have you wondering if there is any place that is safe, or should you continue to stay guarded all of the time? Staying guarded is for your own protection, especially when it comes to identity theft. Here is a break down explaining identity theft facts. What Is It? What is identity theft? Identity theft is when one person assumes the identity of another individual seeking personal gain with the intention of using their money and applying for loans. Anything they can attain is fair game in their eyes. Identity theft may be accomplished by either stealing someone’s wallet or purse, or obtaining a license or social security card belonging to someone else. Other ways identity theft might occur is over the internet or phone as well as in medical offices. The internet has certainly increased the amount of ‘attacks’ that have occurred, primarily because it may be difficult to know who is on the receiving end of any website. Even though sites may be secured, there still may be a shadow of a doubt that someone might get your information. It is a scary topic, to say the least, and you may be wondering how and when it all began. In the Beginning When did identity theft start? Before the internet took off and hit the ground running, identity theft was a crime that also violent. It was not as simple as just gathering someone’s information. Those who wanted your identity had to actually take it from you. Predating banks and credit cards, assuming ones identity meant that you had to get rid of that person to take over their identity. Although identity theft has switched gears over time, it is still a major crime that causes a lot of damage. Phone identity theft started to occur where someone would pose as a representative from a company, ask a series of questions in hopes of obtaining the proper information. This scam usually included a promise to some lavish vacation spot; all they needed to do is check your information in their system. Times have changed since then, too, and most people are well aware that they are not to give any information out over the telephone. If a company is seeking information; they can ask for verification, but will have everything else on file. The garbage used to be a gold mine for identity thieves. This is where they could rummage through paperwork and old bills to get people’s account numbers and bank slips. This remains the easiest way to obtain someone’s information, and while it does still occur, more people are careful about shredding their personal information. It is careless to just throw this type of valuable information in the trash. 5 Shocking Facts What you may not know about identity theft may scare you but is should also give you a heads up as to how you can protect yourself.
- Identity thieves, hackers, and spammers are always going to be a few steps ahead. Programs and awareness have helped narrow that margin, but not completely.
- Hackers work together. They pass around the latest way to steal an identity and the word spreads instantaneously.
- “New Accounts.” This is an area that is gaining the most growth and attention right now and is something to closely monitor on your credit report.
- Almost undetectable. As sophisticated as technology has become, hackers programs are equally sophisticated. They can almost fly under the radar now.
- Protect yourself. Leave no stone unturned, do not trust too many, and do not think you are being overly cautious. It is important not to give anyone the slightest opportunity to get your information.
Others ways to prevent identity theft include changing passwords frequently. This will include email accounts, computer log-ins, even PIN numbers or anything on which you have a passcode. If using a computer, use a secured line and make sure you are logged out after completing your task. Another thing to remember is to never carry too many credit cards or too many forms of personal identification with you. There is no need for your social security card to be in your wallet; maybe just carry your license and a bankcard and/or one credit card.Do all you can to minimize the damage that might be done!
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