How ID Theft Happens
Despite the fact that millions of Americans experience some form of identity theft every year,
many people think they're immune from it. When it eventually does happen, the victim is
completely shocked and never expected it could ever happen to them. Those who are informed of
the possible identity theft dangers, are less likely to let it happen to them so read up on how
identity theft can happen to you:
- Through the mail: We all get tons of that useless junk mail and numerous pre-approved
credit cards, but did you know they can leave you highly susceptible to identity theft?
Some criminals make a living off of simply digging through trash cans for these types of
documents. Through the wonders of technology, an identity thief can even put together
shredded documents and make use of their information.
- Online and email: Do you make any purchases online or participate in online banking? If
you're not using a secure internet connection or if the website you're on is insecure, an
identity thief could be lurking in the background. They can literally steal the information
right from your screen - SSN's, bank account information, and more. Don't forget about
all those suspicious emails too that claim to be from reputable sources. These "phishing"
schemes usually involve a criminal pretending to be a representative from your bank or
another service you use then ask you to update your information. Of course, their real
plan is to use this information for their own gain.
- In everyday life: Thousands of identity thieves practice their trade by simply listening in
on your private conversations or looking over your shoulder as you swipe your credit
card. Expert identity thieves have proven that they can memorize all of the vital
information on one's driver's license in less than 3 seconds and you'd never even know it
happened. Others have stolen thousands by getting people to give out their personal
information through the phone. They claim that the victim had won a drawing or prize
and needed to confirm their identity in order to receive it. If your identity has already been stolen then you may have noticed these signs.
