Different Forms of Identity Theft
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Information is a valuable thing, especially now when most of our lives are spent online and everything we need is available at the touch of a button. Unfortunately, scammers are after this information and will try to trick you in various ways to get it.
Experian has compiled a list of Types of Identity Theft and Fraud here are a few things to look out for.
Credit Card Fraud
This is one of the most common types of fraud. It occurs when one of your cards is lost or stolen and a criminal uses the information on the card to make purchases and rack up debt in your name.
But the criminal doesn’t always need to have your physical card. They can use a skimmer, a device that is fitted to and looks like part of an ATM, which collects card information including the PIN number. The information gathered from the skimmer can be used to produce counterfeit cards and the debts charged on them still is attached to your name and account.
Although it is one of the most common with criminals, the banks and credit card companies have ways to protect you and your money, If you spot any purchases that you don’t recognize or didn’t make, contact the issuer or bank right away.
When using ATMs lookout for anything that might look suspicious. This could be something loose on the keypad or the ATM mouth or even a small camera. If you are unsure, don’t use the ATM and contact the bank immediately.
READ MORE: What is Credit Fraud
Passport Fraud
A passport can help you travel the world and see new sights and experience new cultures. Your passport can also unlock possibilities for criminals to make money if it falls into their hands. This could mean your passport number could be used on travel documentation for people across the dark web.
If you are traveling and have lost your passport or it has been stolen, you need to report it immediately. This will void the passport and the authorities will inform you of the next steps.
Mail Fraud
Your mail could hold all in the information that a criminal needs. This could be from your new credit card getting lost in the mail system to you throwing out a bank statement. It’s still valuable information even if it doesn’t always feel like it.
One way to help is shredding any documents that have your details on it before disposal and if you feel that your mail has been tampered get in touch with the U.S Postal Inspection Service right away.
RELATED: What To Know About Identity Theft
Online Shopping
Buying online is a regular part of life. This can be a hacker and scammer haven. If you are connected to an unsecured Wi-Fi network, be wary about online shopping or even checking your bank account. While it might seem safe, this is where criminals can hack into networks and steal your data.
One easy way to make this difficult for scammers is by using a secured and trusted network. If you’re shopping online, make sure that the site has a lock icon in the URL, meaning that the site is encrypted and safe, especially before entering any card details.
It is important to learn all you can about identity theft. Familiarizing yourself can help you and your loved ones from becoming victims.
If you feel that you have become the victim of identity theft, report it to the police immediately.
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