Identity Theft

'There were 1,473 reported data breaches in 2019, according to the Identity Theft Resource Center's End-of-Year 2019 Data Breach Report. That represents a 17 percent increase over 2018.'

What is identity theft

Identity theft is a term that can be applied anytime someone steals your personal information and uses it without your permission, such as your social security number, and uses it to commit fraud. Click on the following flashcards to find out about more about identity thefts.

Data Breaches

A data breach happens when someone gains access into an organization's database without authorization. Usually, identity thieves steal names, social security numbers, and credit card numbers among many other data.

Unsecure Browsing

Your data might get compromised on unsecure websites. Depending on your browser, you may get an alert if the website is risky.

Dark Web Marketplaces

Identity thieves buy your information here. This is a place where stolen information ends up. Hackers may not necessarily use your stolen information but instead choose to sell it on the shadier corners of the Internet.

Malware Activity

Identity thieves may use malware to steal your data or spy on your computer without you knowing it.

Credit Card Theft

Credit card information is commonly stolen when a data breach happens. This is why you should be extra careful when dealing with banking and card data – once they’re out there, they’re out there.

Mail Theft

Long before Internet, thieves began stealing people's identities through the mail to find documents that hold personal information. Be sure to shred any old mail that may contain personal information.

Possible signs of identity theft

Make sure to always monitor your banking and credit card records and activity frequently. Take immediate action if you ever notice some of the following signs of identity theft:

1. Your bank statement shows purchases or withdrawals you didn't make.
2. You get calls from credit and debt collectors about purchases you didn't make.
3. There are unfamiliar charges on your credit card.
4. You get bills for services/subscriptions you didn't order.

The following video summarizes some of the most important points we’ve covered so far. Watch it while paying close attention before continuing.

Video: David Birch - A new way to stop identity theft

Protecting Yourself Against Identity Theft

Identity thefts can cause tremendous harm, and the criminals are constantly developing new ways to target their victims. If you ever notice any signs of possible identity theft, it’s vital to act immediately by contacting your bank, for example. Luckily, there is a lot you can do to stay safe.

1. Create unique and complex passwords – the longer, the better.
2. Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.
3. Never share your personal information.
4. Shred documents before throwing them away.
5. Choose paperless billing.
6. Use websites that are secured.
7. Stay vigilant on the email – do not open links or attachments.

Exercise: Identity and Identification