Overview
Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information without permission to commit fraud or other crimes. It affects millions of people each year, with losses totaling billions of dollars. Criminals steal identities through data breaches, phishing attacks, mail theft, dumpster diving, and social engineering. The impact goes far beyond financial loss, affecting credit scores, employment opportunities, and emotional wellbeing. Early detection and swift action are critical to minimizing damage.
How This Scam Works
Data breaches expose millions of records containing Social Security numbers, credit card numbers, and other personal data that criminals sell on the dark web.
Phishing attacks trick victims into entering personal information on fake websites or sharing details over the phone.
Mail theft and dumpster diving allow criminals to collect credit card statements, bank statements, and pre-approved credit offers.
Social engineering manipulates people into revealing personal information through pretexting, impersonation, and relationship building.
Stolen personal data is used to open new credit accounts, file fraudulent tax returns, commit medical identity theft, or take over existing accounts.
Warning Signs
Real Scam Examples
These are examples of messages used in this type of scam.
Thank you for opening your new Capital One credit card ending in 4821. Your credit limit is $5,000. If you did not apply for this card, please contact us immediately.
Dear Taxpayer, Our records indicate that a federal tax return was already filed using your Social Security number for the current tax year. If you did not file this return, you may be a victim of identity theft.
This is an attempt to collect a debt. You owe $3,247 to [company] for services rendered. If you do not pay within 30 days, this will be reported to credit bureaus.
How to Protect Yourself
1Freeze your credit
Place a security freeze with all three credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion). This prevents anyone from opening new credit accounts in your name. It is free and can be temporarily lifted when you need to apply for credit.
2Monitor your accounts regularly
Review bank and credit card statements weekly. Check your credit reports at annualcreditreport.com. Set up transaction alerts for all financial accounts.
3Protect your Social Security number
Never carry your Social Security card in your wallet. Only share your SSN when absolutely necessary and verify why it is needed. Do not provide it over the phone unless you initiated the call.
4Use our Data Broker Removal tool
Remove your personal information from data broker websites that sell your data to anyone willing to pay. The GetCyberRight Data Broker Removal tool helps you find and remove your data from 501+ broker sites.
5Secure your mail
Use a locked mailbox or PO box, opt for electronic statements, and shred documents containing personal information before discarding them.
6Use strong, unique passwords
Use a different password for every account and enable multi-factor authentication. Our Security Key Generator can create strong passwords instantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Related Resources
Phishing Attacks: The Complete Protection Guide
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Data Breaches: What They Mean for You and How to Respond
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Social Media Scams: Protecting Your Digital Life
Social media scams affect billions of users across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and X (Twitter)...
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