What is Identity Theft?
What is Identity Theft?
Who are you? What aspects of yourself do you identify with? Your morals and values, your interests, the way you grew up? These things make you who you are. However, though these aspects are important to you, a criminal does not care about how good of a person you are. A criminal just wants your identity as it is on your official documents. Once a criminal gets ahold of your identity, all you’ll have is your dignity. Soon to be lost, your good name.
What is identity theft? Identity theft occurs when a criminal gains access to your personal information and will use it to commit a crime or fraud in your name. There are numerous types of identity theft, such as mail identity theft, credit card fraud, even online shopping fraud. There are up to 20 different types of identity theft.
What kind of personal information do thieves look for? Exposing any of the following information in the wrong place can leave you at risk for identity theft:
- Name
- Address (Both physical and e-mail)
- Telephone number
- Drivers license/passport number
- Online passwords
- Any banking information (card number, account number, pin code)
- Date of birth
- Social Security
How do thieves gain access to my information? Thieves can access your information in many ways, such as a corporate data breach, stealing your mail, a “phishing” scam, unsecured websites, debit/credit card skimmers, stealing your mail, wallet, or purse, even “dumpster diving” through discarded mail, and more.
How will thieves use my information? Experian Information Services lists a few ways thieves could use information.
- Make purchases using financial information
- To sell to other criminals on the dark web to commit fraud
- Open a credit card account to commit fraud
- File taxes in your name/steal your tax return
- Buy a home in your name
- There are other possible ways for a thief to use personal information
How will I know if my identity has been stolen? Here are just a few signs to watch out for: receiving tax information you didn’t request, unauthorized transactions on your bank account, receiving a bill for a purchase you didn’t make, being denied credit. Watch out for any other confusing occurrence as well.
Now that you know more about identity theft, come back tomorrow to read more about protecting your identity.
Do you have questions about your insurance? Find an insurance agent near you with our Agent Finder
Search All Blogs
Read More Blogs
Steering Your Savings: Taking Control of Your Car Insurance Rates
You’re in the driver’s seat! Learn how your credit, driving habits, vehicle choice, and smart shopping can lower your car insurance costs.
Underfoot Upgrade: Transforming Your Garage Floor from Forgotten to Fantastic
Don’t ignore your garage floor! Discover easy and impactful ways to upgrade this often-neglected area of your home.
Unwrapping the Wiener: A Deep Dive into the History and Lore of the Hot Dog
Beyond the bun: Discover the surprising history, varieties, and enduring appeal of America’s favorite tubular treat.
The Untapped Power of Collaboration: Why Asking for Help Fuels Business Success
Stop going it alone! Discover how leveraging the expertise of others can relieve pressure and drive your business forward.
Navigating the Grandparenting Journey: Understanding Today’s Families
Grandparenting today: Learn key shifts in family dynamics to build stronger connections with your children and grandchildren.
Mapping Our Paths: The Fascinating Reasons Behind Our Road Networks
The story behind the asphalt: Explore the geographical, historical, and planning influences that shaped our modern road systems.
Neighborly Navigations: Resolving Disputes in Non-HOA Communities
No HOA, no problem? Learn how to navigate neighborly disputes effectively in communities without formal management.
Vintage Years of Vision: Four Times Hollywood Hit Cinematic Gold
Like fine wines, certain years in film history stand out for their exceptional quality and the enduring impact of the movies they produced. This article explores four such landmark years, presented chronologically, that many cinephiles consider to be among the greatest in cinematic history.
Green Means Growth: How Environmental Responsibility Can Boost Your Business
It might seem like a secondary concern when facing immediate business challenges, but embracing environmentally friendly practices can actually be a powerful strategy for improving sales, attracting top talent, strengthening your brand, and even saving money. This article explores the tangible benefits of going green for your company’s bottom line and long-term success.
The Forgotten Beauty: Unearthing the Story of the Volkswagen Karmann Ghia
Beyond the iconic Beetle and the groovy Microbus, Volkswagen produced a surprisingly elegant and often overlooked sports car: the Karmann Ghia. This article explores the history, design, and enduring appeal of this “poor man’s sportscar” that has become a sought-after collectible.