How Does ID Theft Happen?
The crime of ID theft happens when someone has his or her personal details misused by a criminal. The person who steals someone’s identity might use the victim’s name, social security number and other details to acquire benefits and services that the thief doesn't want to pay for. In the meantime, the victim is left to try to resolve the mess the criminal made of his finances and personal records. The crime is a serious one with major consequences to targets and anyone can be a target.
ID Theft on the Internet
The Internet has become a virtual playground for identity thieves, and criminals that are trying to get hold of victims' private information have discovered how the Internet has been proven itself an invaluable tool. Internet identity thieves use many different tricks to steal personal data online. These criminals can hack into databases or can log onto people’s personal networks to obtain information. Criminals can set up fake sites to solicit identifying information, install viruses and trackers on people’s computers and try to trick people into giving up their passwords and other details via emails. The various tools online for identity thieves are nearly endless and people who use the Internet should be careful about what websites they use to share information, and about what details they give out to those they don’t know or trust.
Offline Identity Theft Dangers
Although the Internet has become the biggest place where identity thieves work, victims can also have their identity stolen in other places as well. For instance, thieves could tamper with ATM machines to get them to record account information or could take note of credit card numbers and info when the cards are swiped in restaurants or in stores. They can also look through discarded mail to get personal details. Protecting yourself from this type of identity theft is much more difficult, although you can take precautions by shredding your mail and being careful where your card is used.
Protecting Yourself from ID Theft
Achieving 100% protection from getting your identity stolen can often be difficult or impossible. However, with programs like IDENTITY GUARD®, you could have the tools you need to identify when your information has fallen into the wrong hands. If certain suspicious events occur, you are notified and you can then be proactive in determining if your information has fallen into the wrong hands. Visit https://www.identityguard.com for more information on protecting yourself from the consequences of ID theft.