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Types of
Identity Theft
Unfortunately identity theft is becoming a
frequently used term in today’s society. The majority of
people who talk about identity theft assume that it’s all
the same. However, there are several different ways you
could be a victim of identity theft. Here are a few of
the most used types of identity theft.
- Credit/Financial Fraud- This is probably the
main type of identity theft used today. Thieves can
get your checking, savings, or credit card
information. They can run up ridiculous charges. They
may even get access to other accounts you have like
retirement accounts or other investments. Once they
get access to this information, it doesn’t take them
long to drain your accounts and possibly ruin your
credit.
- SSN Fraud- A thief can do pretty much
whatever he/she wants if they have your SSN. They can
get access to your finances and almost any other
information. This information can then be used to
open new accounts, access your finances, even assume
your entire identity.
- Driver’s License Fraud- A thief may steal
your driver’s license for a number of reasons. It is
after all the number one form of identification. More
than likely, they will use the driver’s license to
commit traffic crimes without having to worry. They
can get parking tickets and speeding tickets without
every having to worry about showing up for court or
paying expensive fines. They drive however they want
and let you pay the consequences.
- Criminal Fraud- Identity thieves will often
use your information when they are accused of a
crime. It can be infuriating and horrifying to be
arrested for a crime you know you didn’t commit. The
crime could be something as small as speeding or as
large as bank robbery. Several people have had
warrants issued for their arrest after being the
victim of identity theft. This is obviously one of
the most severe types of fraud a thief can
commit.
- Medical Fraud- An identity thief may try to
get access to your medical information like health
insurance. They may just be using your medical
records to keep certain test results off of their
records. Most of the time the information is used to
get their medical expenses covered in your name or
under your health insurance. They may even try to
open new health insurance in your name. Of course
you’re the one that’s left with the outstanding
bills.
- Cloning- This is where an identity thief
pretty much assumes your entire identity. They
basically build a life pretending to be you. They may
rent an apartment, buy a car, take out loans or
credit cards, join clubs or memberships, etc. It can
be unsettling to say the least when you find out
someone has stolen your entire life.
These are the most common types of identity
theft. Even though each one is slightly different, they
are all difficult to deal with. Any type of identity
theft can leave you feeling paranoid and defensive. While
there is nothing you can do to completely avoid becoming
a victim, you can educate your self about identity theft.
The more you know about it, the more likely it is that
you’ll be able to prevent it from happening to
you.
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