Identity Theft

Identity theft is a type of crime where someone steals another person’s personal information, such as their name, address, social security number, or credit card details, in order to commit fraud or other illegal activities. The stolen information can be used to open new credit card accounts, apply for loans, use medical benefits, or even file fraudulent tax returns.

Your personal information is a hot commodity. Criminals work hard every day to obtain data about individuals that they can use to their advantage. Sometimes the information gains them access to unauthorized places. Other times it is used to steal money, and often the information is sold to other outlaws. No matter how the information is used, it is reprehensible. It is best to be proactive in the protection of your identity.

Identity theft can have devastating consequences for the victims, including financial losses, damage to credit scores, and even legal trouble if the thief uses the stolen identity to commit crimes. Protecting personal information and monitoring financial accounts is vital to detect any signs of identity theft.

Some common types of identity theft

1. Financial identity theft involves stealing someone’s credit card, checking/savings account, or other financial information to make unauthorized purchases or withdrawals.
2. Medical identity theft happens when someone’s personal information is used to obtain medical services or prescriptions.
3. Criminal identity theft occurs when someone uses another person’s identity when arrested or questioned by law enforcement.
4. Social Security identity theft involves stealing someone’s Social Security number to obtain employment or government benefits.
5. Synthetic identity theft occurs when pieces of different individuals’ information are combined to create a new identity.

Despite all the ways your identity information can be used, it is all still just data. Which means it all needs routine attention to be guarded. Vigilance is key to successfully protecting your personal information.

Identity Protection

The United States government is well aware of the magnitude of the problems caused by identity theft crimes. A substantial amount of manpower, time, and effort goes into informing the public of tactics to help them avoid becoming victims. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) website is an excellent resource Americans can use to learn about best practices for self-protection. You can arm yourself with valuable and practical tips through the agency’s many articles, links, and videos. Click the links below to start educating yourself through the FTC library.

• What to Know About Identity Theft 
• How to Protect Your Child From Identity Theft
• What to Know About Medical Identity Theft
• What to Know About Tax Identity Theft
• What to Know About Credit Freezes and Fraud Alerts

Identity Theft Recovery

What if you are or have been a victim of identity theft? There are steps you can take to recover from these devastating events. The FTC has resources to help individuals report these crimes and reclaim their lives. It can be a difficult road back to secure identity, but there is help to be found.

In conclusion, identity theft is the heinous act of acquiring the information that makes up an individual’s stats and using that data for illegal gains. There are ways that you can shield yourself and loved ones from these crimes. Additionally, if you do become a victim, you can get help.