Identity Theft
- What is identity theft?
- Types of identity theft
- How thieves get your personal information
- Keep important numbers safe
- Keeping prying eyes out
- Keep online transactions safe
- Identity theft warning signs
- What is a fraud alert?
- What is security freeze?
- Resources for more information
How thieves get your personal information
Identity thieves and perpetrators of fraud find many ways to access your personal information. They may:
- Go through your trash or recycling bin at home, work, or the public landfill
- Misrepresent themselves as working for a legitimate organization (medical office, pharmacy, government agency, charity) to try to trick you into divulging bank account numbers or other personal information
- Send you emails that look like they are from your bank or another institution you trust asking for personal data
After a perpetrator has gained access to your personal data, such as your social security number, health insurance information, or bank account numbers, they can:
- Drain your bank accounts or investment accounts
- Run up charges using your credit cards
- Apply for loans and credit cards in your name
- Open accounts for utilities, new charge cards, and other items in your name
- Get medical treatment or prescriptions using your health insurance
- Sometimes, give your name to the police in the event of an arrest
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