Identity theft is a big problem for most people nowadays. So, it is important for you to know how to protect yourself and to do so, you need to be informed. One of the things you need to know about, are the types of identity theft out there.
Child Identity Theft
There are some people who target identities of children. And, more often than not, the thief is a family member, a relative or somebody close to the family. This is alarming because, although the child may not use his social security number until after 8 years or so, the thief can use the stolen identity to access a college fund for the child and steal it.
Social Security Identity Theft
This occurs when your social security number and your name are used to open a new credit account. Your SSN is probably one the most valuable pieces of personal information that somebody can steal from you. Once someone has your SSN, they can use it to assume your identity and evade tax or if they are a convict, make a clean slate for themselves.
Medical Identity Theft
Some people will use your personal information to benefit from your medical and health insurance. They can get medical treatment, surgery and drugs for free using our information. They can use your personal info to send fabricated bills to your insurance company.
Internet Identity Theft
Also known as online or computer theft. Unlike the usual identity theft where the thief takes something from you that has your personal information and use it to steal from you, for this theft, they do not need any of those. With online shopping becoming evermore popular, your computer probably has stored in its memory your personal information. Malware, viruses, and other rogue software applications can allow access to your personal information. They can then use your information to purchase items online using your identity or to open new credit accounts.
Business Identity Thefts
The usual target for these thieves are small to medium sized establishments. They will use the private information of a company to avail of their huge reserve of money and business partners.
Credit Card Identity Theft
In this case, your credit card information is used by the thief so they can purchase things for free under your identity.
More than knowing this information, it is more important for you to know how to protect yourself from identity thieves. Let this knowledge strengthen and empower you to vigilance!