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How Identity Theft May Happen?

Unfortunately for us, it is reasonably easy for identity thieves to grab other people’s personal data and ply their trade. For instance, suppose that you misplace (or someone steals) your bag. From your bag, they obtain your driver’s license (with your name, street address, and DOB), credit cards (department store cards, gas cards and others), ATM cards (if you’re a forgetful person, complete with PIN numbers written down clearly), and also medical benefits cards (with your SSN). Many people even carry their Social Security cards and personal checkbooks in their wallets. All the crucial information an identity thief wants is right there in one location.

Identity thieves can also grab your personal information in a midnight garbage safari trip also known as dumpster diving. Yes, these people will literally go through those stinky garbage cans in front of victim houses and scrounge important data such as cancelled checks, utility bill statements, bank statements, credit card receipts, and the pre-approved credit card they’ve been throwing away. Remember this important advice: “If you do not shred it, it is not dead yet”. The non-shredded personal data you’ve discarded in the trash becomes free stuffs and those identity thieves will thank you for being so kind.

Identity thieves have a lot of techniques – some rather sophisticated and high-tech – to get your personal data, garbage and wallets are the most frequent targets. The point is that right after the thief has your personal data; he can quickly assume your identity (financially) and start making transaction, getting money or loans, and using your good credit record.

The FTC study shows that identity theft may happen to anyone, nearly all men, women and children are vulnerable victims. Yes, even children are vulnerable to identity theft since many teenagers (over 16) have a SSN, and every child has a DOB. Identity thief doesn’t care about your age; he just wants your personal data they can use to grab the credit. The distressing part is that you may become a victim and not know immediately. For example, you may discover you’re an identity theft victim only when you go to purchase a SUV and get turned down for car loan because your credit report already records three unpaid cars. If you can catch it early, however, you can reduce the amount of money and time necessary to clear up your reputation.