Identity theft is a crime where a person or group takes over the personal information of an individual primarily for financial gain. Although financial gain is the main reason for identity theft it is also a way for immigrants and criminals to take on a different persona, to actually live their life under the guise of another person. In the right hands, or rather the wrong hands, a person’s social security number is a direct link to their life, not just their finances, but many aspects of how they live and the benefits of which they obtain.
Through your social security number the criminal can have access to credit, medical benefits, employment, as well as, unemployment benefits. Credit accounts can be opened rather easily. Many retailers will …show more content…
You should carry the one you intend to use and perhaps the one you may have for emergency situations. They now sell protective casings for your card that will stop scanners from reading the magnetic strip, allowing them access to your information. Junk mail and bills should be shredded. A 30.00 investment in a shredder can save you from an identity thief.
As consumers we have to think smart, we have to be aware of our surroundings. When online, we should look over the site we are about to type in our information. Think things over a few times before acting. Be cautious as to who is asking questions on the phone, be aware of what they are asking for, and always ask why they need particular information.
As a victim of identity theft I realize that staying safe is a difficult task, these people that steal personal information are difficult to see. It happens with barely a notice and sometimes, such in my case, without notice at all. The best we can do is to be aware that this is happening and know that it is our job, our responsibility to be the safe keepers of our private information. Awareness is key, always think before sharing, voicing, or entering a number. Monitor your bank and credit statements, watch your credit score and don’t simply throw out but destroy documents that are no longer needed. Take the time to be safe. Unfortunately, it is easier for the thief to acquire and accomplish the task of stealing your identity then it is for you to obtain it
Through your social security number the criminal can have access to credit, medical benefits, employment, as well as, unemployment benefits. Credit accounts can be opened rather easily. Many retailers will …show more content…
You should carry the one you intend to use and perhaps the one you may have for emergency situations. They now sell protective casings for your card that will stop scanners from reading the magnetic strip, allowing them access to your information. Junk mail and bills should be shredded. A 30.00 investment in a shredder can save you from an identity thief.
As consumers we have to think smart, we have to be aware of our surroundings. When online, we should look over the site we are about to type in our information. Think things over a few times before acting. Be cautious as to who is asking questions on the phone, be aware of what they are asking for, and always ask why they need particular information.
As a victim of identity theft I realize that staying safe is a difficult task, these people that steal personal information are difficult to see. It happens with barely a notice and sometimes, such in my case, without notice at all. The best we can do is to be aware that this is happening and know that it is our job, our responsibility to be the safe keepers of our private information. Awareness is key, always think before sharing, voicing, or entering a number. Monitor your bank and credit statements, watch your credit score and don’t simply throw out but destroy documents that are no longer needed. Take the time to be safe. Unfortunately, it is easier for the thief to acquire and accomplish the task of stealing your identity then it is for you to obtain it