What is identity theft?
Identity theft occurs when someone steals personal information (e.g., name, ID number, credit card number, Social Security number, driver’s license, etc.) from another person for fraudulent purposes.
The objective of identity theft may be:
- Opening credit or bank accounts (issuing false checks or obtaining loans).
- Hijacking email accounts.
- Collecting insurance policies.
- Selling the information to other scammers.
Theft methods commonly used by scammers:
- Phishing, vishing (through calls), and smishing (through SMS).
- Information that can be obtained on the internet.
- Unsecured Wi-Fi networks.
Protect yourself from identity theft!
- Verify all requests for personal data.
- Limit the amount of personal information you share online (e.g., on social media).
- Regularly review your online banking transactions and credit card statements.
- For security, keep your email inbox clean.
- If you believe you have been a victim of identity theft, notify your bank immediately, gather all possible evidence, and report the scam to the police.
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