What makes a person a likely target for identity theft?

those with a high school diploma or less education. Similarly, people with incomes over $50,000 were more likely to be identity theft victims than those who make less than $50,000. But it's not just perceived wealth that makes someone a target. There's the unseen risk of a larger data footprint.

Who is mainly targeted for identity theft?

Consumers between the ages of 40 and 69 are reporting identity theft at higher rates, suggesting a growing awareness of this crime—and vulnerability. Here's a look at three groups identity thieves target and why.

What type of victim do thieves usually target?

What type of victim do thieves usually target? These are characteristics of financial fraud victims in general: Senior adults, especially those who have mental or physical impairments. Individuals who are physically impaired.

What age group is most likely to get their identity stolen?

Identity Theft Reports by Age

2020 was an atypical year for identity theft, in that 30 to 39-year-olds were the most frequently targeted age group for identity theft. Normally, children under 19, young adults 20 to 29, and seniors over 60 are the most common victims of identity theft.

What are the two types of information identity thieves generally target?

Any of these pieces of information are fair game for identity thieves, though some are more valuable than others: SSN, date of birth, credit card numbers, driver's license number, Social Security card, passwords and usernames, rewards account numbers, and more.

Identity Theft Explained - And What To Do About It

What are the 5 most common types of identity theft?

How easy is it to have your identity stolen?

There are a number of ways identity thieves may obtain your personal information. Fraudsters may dig through mail or trash in search of credit card or bank statements. Unsecured web sites or public Wi-Fi may allow identity thieves to access your information electronically.

What types of personal information do identity thieves steal?

Identity theft begins when someone takes your personally identifiable information such as your name, Social Security Number, date of birth, your mother's maiden name, and your address to use it, without your knowledge or permission, for their personal financial gain.

What are 5 ways someone can steal your identity?

What are the three most common acts of identity theft?

The three most common types of identity theft are financial, medical and online.

What are the first signs of identity theft?

What information does a scammer need?

Much like a Social Security number, a thief only needs your name and credit card number to go on a spending spree. Many merchants, particularly online, also ask for your credit card expiration date and security code. But not all do, which opens an opportunity for the thief.

What is the most common way that fraudsters use personal data?

Vishing means voice phishing is a popular way fraudsters steal personal information. Generally, cybercriminals contact businesses over the telephone and pretend to be legitimate organizations such as a financial institution or a payment service organization.

Can my identity be stolen with my name and date of birth?

Unfortunately, an ID fraudster can use your birthday as a piece of the puzzle to capture your identity and commit identity theft. Fraudsters need just three key bits of information to steal your identity and access your accounts, take out loans, credit cards, mobile phones in your name.

What are the top 10 ways that thieves steal your identity?

What information does a scammer need to access my bank account?

An employment scammer will post a job opportunity and then ask for your ID to verify your identity as part of the hiring process. Once they have your personal information (such as your ID, Social security number, etc.), they can steal your identity and access your bank account.

How do I check to see if someone is using my Social Security number?

If you believe someone is using your Social Security number to work, get your tax refund, or other abuses involving taxes, contact the IRS online or call 1-800-908-4490. You can order free credit reports annually from the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion).

What can a scammer do with my name and phone number?

By having your cell number, a scammer could trick caller ID systems and get into your financial accounts or call financial institutions that use your phone number to identify you. Once the scammer convinces your carrier to port out your number, you may never get it back. Scam porting is a big problem for phone owners.

What can a scammer do with name and address?

What can a scammer do with my picture?

Information fraudsters could get from your photos

A photo posted on your birthday, for example, would provide them with your date of birth, whereas a photo of a new house could potentially give them details of where you live.

What are 7 key signs that you have been a victim of identity theft?

How common is stolen identity?

Around 1 in 15 people become victims of identity fraud. Americans are most likely to have their identities stolen. 650,572 people suffered from identity theft in 2019. Over 1 million children become victims of identity crimes each year.

How do I know if my identity is being used without my knowledge?

Calls Verifying Unfamiliar Purchases

A call, email, or text message attempting to verify an unfamiliar purchase is a classic warning sign of identity theft. If you get one of these messages from your credit card company or bank, take it seriously. Investigate and report any unauthorized purchase attempts.

What are the 4 types of identity theft?

The four types of identity theft include medical, criminal, financial and child identity theft. Medical identity theft occurs when individuals identify themselves as another to procure free medical care.

Why do people steal?

Stealing may be caused by jealousy, low self-esteem, or peer-pressure. Social issues like feeling excluded or overlooked can also cause stealing. People may steal to prove their independence, to act out against family or friends, or because they don't respect others or themselves.