How Identity Theft Works
We have talked about what to do after you’ve been an identity theft victim. But do you know where to be most cautious? The following is a list of the top ways ID thieves are preying on their victims.
Searching your home and purse/wallet: It is true that the vast majority of identity thieves know or are related to their victims. They have access to your home and personal belongings, and they are the people you might least suspect.
Dumpster diving: Your trash is a hot spot of ID theft opportunity. Credit card offers, bank statements, discarded checkbook carbon copies, old paycheck stubs, anything with your social security number on it, etc.
Shoulder surfing: Using a public terminal to surf the net? You might want to think twice, particularly when typing in sensitive information like banking passwords. Also watch for shoulder surfers checking out your pin or card number in line at stores.
Stealing mail: Most of the stuff that can be found in your trash can be found in your mail as well. Mail that has fallen out of the mailbox and onto the ground is one obvious sign to watch for.
“Phishing”: This is the ultimate competition and it can net a prize much bigger than any fishing contest you’ve ever heard of. Some ID thieves send out fake e-mails posing as banks, merchants, service providers or magazine publishers that direct consumers to a web site appearing completely normal and legitimate. Information may then be entered in by the consumer, either to “verify an account” with a bank or lender, or to “renew” an account or subscription. But the site is a mirror of the truly legitimate original web site and someone is on the other end taking down all your information.
Phone scams: This is the same type of thing as “phishing,” but over the phone. A person will ask you to verify your social security number, account number, etc. over the phone. They will pose as a representative of a completely legitimate organization with which you might even conduct regular business. They can even rig the phone number from which they are calling to appear on Caller ID machines with the appropriate organization’s name and number.
Yes, it’s scary stuff, but don’t despair! Some common sense steps can at least decrease your chances of becoming a victim of identity theft. Ultimately, the best protection is to think like a criminal and identify any theft opportunities just as they would. But alas, another topic for another day. Stay tuned!
