The first step in protecting yourself from identity theft is understanding the different types—because the more you know, the better you can protect yourself and your family.

Types of Identity Theft

New Account Identity Theft

‍When a thief opens up a completely new account in a victim’s name. This can be done by digging credit card applications out of the mailbox of your trash.

Existing Account takeover Identity Theft

‍This is when criminals gain access to existing accounts and make charges to credit cards, steal money from bank accounts, and file claims against insurance policies.

Tax-related Identity Theft

‍This occurs when the criminal submits an income tax return using someone else’s Social Security Number and fraudulent income data, hoping to receive a refund.

Criminal Identity Theft

‍This is when a criminal uses someone else’s identity when providing information to a law enforcement official. It could be for something as simple as a minor traffic violation. However, when fines are never paid and when the victim does not show up in court, authorities can issue an arrest warrant in the victim’s name.

7 Ways Identity Theft Can Happen to You

1. Mail Theft

‍Unsecure mailboxes allow thieves to steal sensitive information like bank statements and account numbers.

2. Data Breaches

‍Use a Mobile Wallet for secure shopping. It shares only encrypted tokens, protecting your info during data breaches.

3. Phishing

‍Fraudsters pose as legitimate entities to steal sensitive information. Always verify before responding.

4. Dumpster Diving

‍Shredding documents with sensitive information prevents criminals from accessing valuable data.

5. Unsafe Internet Connections

‍Public Wi-Fi, even password-protected, can expose your online activity to criminals.

6. Weak Data Protection

‍Secure sensitive documents when unfamiliar individuals are in your home.

7. Lost Social Security Card

‍Losing your Social Security card provides thieves easy access to personal details.

If you'd like more information or fear that your identity's been stolen, please visit the Federal Trade Commission Identity Theft Recovery Center here.