Identity Theft and Prevention

Author: Steve Cabouli

Author: Steve Cabouli

Identity theft has now become a serious crime affecting more than ten million people in the US. Identity theft refers to a fraudulent activity that involves the usage of identity of one person by another person for illegal purposes. In fact, the consequences of identity theft is quite distressing, as criminals mostly use your identity for such purposes as opening new bank accounts, acquiring new credit cards, and loans, but eventually leaving all credit in your name. Even though identity theft can affect any one at any time, taking some precautions may help you to avoid identity theft to an extent. As mentioned earlier, identity theft may happen at anytime, no matter you are at home, office, or while traveling. Identity theft may also occur via the phone. With the advent of the internet, identity theft also happens online. When you are at home, place all your important documents covering credit card and financial bills, important bank documents, critical official papers, credit cards, and other important personal documents in a durable safe that could be opened and accessed only by you. Likewise, check twice or thrice before throwing a bill or a piece of paper, as criminals adopt a practice namely dumpster diving to retrieve your most important data. Majority of people become victim of identity theft as a result of pick-pocketing as well as stolen wallet. Hence, when you go outside, it is advisable to carry not more than one credit card, debit card, or ATM card in your wallet. Further, if not necessary, avoid carrying critical information like social security card in your wallet. Since criminals use a kind of method known as skimming to copy your card information, be careful when dealing with your credit or debit card. In addition, cover the keypad while typing your PIN number at the ATM counter. Another common way through which you may become victim of identity theft is via phishing emails. Hence, be cautious when you receive finance or government related emails, as sometimes it may be a spam to retrieve your most sensitive information. Sometimes, criminals may pretend calling from credit company, and ask your credit card information like number or account details. But a genuine credit card company or bank never calls over the phone or email you requesting your bank account or credit card details. Equally important is to track your bank account and credit card statements and if you find any transaction is suspicious or unscrupulous, report it immediately to your bank or credit card agency.About the Author:

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