Identity theft
A data theft where the person obtaining the information illegally is primarily searching for personal information or records. Often the user is looking for such information as full name, maiden name, address, date of birth, social security number, passwords, phone numbers, email, family information, credit card numbers, other credit information, etc. The user then uses this information to gain access to bank accounts or other protected areas, uses your personal information as their own identification, or sells your information.
Tips on preventing identity theft:
- When entering any personal information on the Internet make sure you're entering it on a secure page, indicated with a lock.
- When purchasing something over the Internet unless you plan on buying something from that same company again in the near future do not store your credit card or personal information with that site.
- Make sure to have an active and up-to-date spyware protection program and antivirus protection program.
- Be aware of fake e-mails / phishing e-mails that claim to be a company such as your bank requesting any personal information or login information.
- Make sure your computer is secure.
- If you're a victim of a stolen computer read through the steps on what to do if computer or laptop was stolen or lost.
- Additional information and help with identity theft can also be found at: http://www.identitytheft.org/
Also see: Data theft, Dumpster diving, Phishing, Privacy, Security definitions, Spyware