What is identity theft?
Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in America today. Identity theft happens when someone illegally acquires personal information about you. This could include your name and address, credit card or account numbers, social security number, or medical insurance account numbers.
The identity thief can then use your personal information to open new credit cards, new checking accounts, create counterfeit checks or apply for loans. All will be opened in your name, and can cause financial loss, damage your credit and result in a lengthy resolution process.
Identity theft can be a high tech crime that occurs online or through data breaches, but it can also occur offline by stealing wallets and purses, intercepting mail and rummaging through garbage. Many identity thieves obtain your personal information through a variety of scams.
Learn more about, report identity theft and keep informed on the latest fraudulent scams.