Identity theft and identity fraud is the last type of criminal activity that I would like to briefly discuss for my March blog. This type of theft as we all know is when someone wrongfully obtains and uses your personal data in some way that involves fraud or deception, typically for economic gain.
The perpetrators usually obtain your personal data from your personal information found in your Social Security card, credit card, driver's license, bank account, computer passwords, even your telephone number and other pertinent personal data you have. The perpetrators use your information mostly for economic gains and to purchase items and services under your name. As simple as that.
I for one became a victim of credit card fraud. Early this year, I noticed twice that I was charged for buying something in Europe which I obviously did not. As soon as I became aware of it, I immediately called my credit card service and canceled my card and was issued a new card.
Let us be very aware of how we send our personal information out there. Let us always shred all papers that we throw out if we think they have our personal information since some criminals believe it or not are "dump divers." Be careful also of just giving out your social security number or credit card number if they are not necessarily needed by the merchant. Always be on the watchout and learn how to protect yourself against these scumbags!!!
Remember once you become a victim of identity theft and identity fraud it becomes a daunting task that might take a lifetime just for you to straighten out and correct, re-establish and regain your true identity again.
For more information about identity theft and fraud and how you can avoid them you may visit:
http://www.justice.gov/criminal/fraud/websites/idtheft.html
Photo Credit: Identity Theft Photo Collage
Photographer: Glenn McKnight
Photo Link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/glennmcknight/page1/
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