subject: What Are The Different Ways Identity Theft Occurs? [print this page] Identity theft can happen in a lot of waysIdentity theft can happen in a lot of ways. Understanding just how these thieves conduct their business may put you on the right path to stopping it from happening to you. Identity theft can be in the form of computers, taxes, or someone literally stealing information from your wallet. No matter what, there are several different ways a thief can steal your identity.
1.The Old Fashioned Way Though it is rare these days, some identity thieves still steal your information the old fashioned way by breaking into your home, going through your garbage, or stealing your wallet. They will sift through your trash for personal information that can assist them in stealing your identity or they may steal your wallet and just outright use your credit cards right then and there. One way to prevent this from happening is to be sure that you never throw away paperwork that has your personal information on it in the trash without it being shredded first. You should always lock your doors in your home and never keep more than one credit card in your wallet at a time. It can be beneficial to invest in a personal safe for your home as well. That way you can ensure your personal documents are locked away for safekeeping.
2.Tax Returns Identity thieves can steal your personal information from tax documents that you have mailed to your home. By intercepting these documents in the mail they will have your name, address, date of birth and social security number all in one package. Also, there have been several cases of local tax firms having employees that steal personal information from their customers. A way to avoid this is to hire an accountant that is yours just for tax season and avoid the chain firms. If you are doing your taxes yourself, you should always e-file directly through the IRS website and have the IRS send your state return electronically to your local tax center.
3.Fraudulent Companies There are a lot of fraudulent companies out there just waiting for someone gullible to come along. These companies can be in the form of personal finance, house cleaning, etc. Any time you hire a company or individual to work for you, always do your research. Never invest in a company unless you know everything there is to know about them. Never give your private information to any company you are doing business with unless it is something like applying for a loan at your bank.
4.Computer Hacking One of the most popular ways for someones identity to get stolen is through computer hacking. These days we are all over the internet. We fill out online forms, shop internet stores and live on our email. By doing so, we open our personal information up to the internet and all of the people on it. Never post your personal information on the internet and if you are filling out online forms, be sure you are on a secure website prior to submitting.
These are just a few examples of ways identity thieves can steal your information and destroy your life with identity theft. Always be cautious of where you post your private information or who you give your private information to. By being aware that identity theft happens, you can take the necessary precautions to not become another statistic.
