Types of Identity Theft
Identity theft is the fastest growing crime in America. It affects not only adults, but children as well. Often people aren’t even aware their identity has been stolen.
Credit identity theft is the most publicized. Someone uses your information to obtain loans or credit in your name, sometimes even taking money straight from your bank account. You are left with a bad credit score; often with thousands of dollars of debt you didn’t accrue.
Driver’s license identity theft involves someone using your information when issued a citation. When they fail to appear in court, you are the one the police come for. You could even lose your auto insurance, all because someone else is using your Driver’s License information.
Medical identity theft occurs when someone receiving treatment gives out your information. You receive bills for treatment you never had. You could lose health coverage or be denied needed medical treatment and benefits because of false information on your medical records.
Social Security identity theft happens when someone uses your Social Security number to report their wages. This is of course sent to the IRS, who demand that you pay the taxes on this additional income, even though you never saw the money. Having someone else reporting earnings on your Social Security number could also lose you other benefits as well, such as unemployment or aid to families with dependent children.
Character Identity theft blackens your good name. If someone commits a crime in your name, you could be the one arrested. Your link to a criminal record can mar your chances of a good job when a background check is done.
Protecting your personal information is important, even though not all types of identity theft ruin your credit score. To protect your personal information, shred unwanted mail. Don’t give out information indiscriminately.
Don’t carry your Social Security card with you. Report a lost or stolen wallet to the police, as well as notify your credit card companies and bank. Checking your credit score occasionally can also help you know if someone else is using your credit information.
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- Child Identity Theft: The 17-10 Solution
- Dear Credit Karma… Identity Theft
- 10 Ways Identity Thieves Destroy Your Reputation
