Identity theft
Identity theft or online identity theft is illegally obtaining personal information about someone else. Thieves try to obtain items like another's full name, maiden name, address, date of birth, social security number, passwords, phone number, e-mail, and credit card numbers. They may then use this information to access a bank account, e-mail, smartphones, identify themselves as you, or sell your information.
Tips on preventing identity theft
- When entering personal information on the Internet, ensure the connection is encrypted. A connection encrypted with HTTPS is usually indicated by a small lock icon in the address bar. For further information, see: How to protect yourself while on the Internet.
- When making purchases on the Internet, do not store your credit card or personal information on a site unless you plan on shopping there frequently.
- Make sure to have active and up-to-date spyware and antivirus protection programs.
- Never send confidential information over e-mail, as this medium is not encrypted.
- If your computer is stolen, see: What can I do if my computer or laptop was lost or stolen?
- When selecting answers to the secret questions (used to reset passwords), don't enter anything that others can discover online. For example, a common security question is, "What is your pet's name?" because a stranger might not know the answer. However, if you're constantly discussing your dog Fluffy on Facebook, an attacker could use this information to guess the answer and break into your account.
- If someone claiming to be from your bank or credit card company calls you about suspected fraudulent activity, don't divulge personal information. Identity thieves try to make you panic or worry, causing you to give them information you would normally not provide. If they ask for details like your birthdate, driver's license number, and previous addresses where you lived, that is a red flag. End the call immediately, and call your bank or credit card company to determine if there is any fraudulent activity.
- Similarly, be aware of fake e-mails and phishing attempts, requesting personal information or login information.
What should I do if I'm a victim of identity theft?
If you believe you're a victim of identity theft and are a citizen of the United States, visit the following link to report identity theft and get a recovery plan:
If your social security number may be partially or fully compromised, we recommend a credit freeze to prevent identity thieves from creating credit-related accounts in your name. New credit cards, bank loans, or any inquiry against your credit report is blocked when your credit is frozen. Visit the three credit bureau sites below, create an account, and freeze your credit for each bureau for free.
To help keep fraudulent bank accounts from being opened in your name, click the link below to file a security alert with ChexSystems. Most banks utilize ChexSystems to help verify the identity of people opening checking and savings accounts. By filing with this company, if someone tries to open a bank account in your name, the bank sees the alert. Extra precautions are taken, including the bank calling you to verify if the new bank account request is valid or if it's a fraud attempt.
Computer crime, Data theft, Dumpster diving, Ghosting, Identity, Phishing, Privacy, Security terms, Spyware, Theft