What Is Identity Theft And How To Detect It
Image: Unsplash
20 May 2024
Identity theft is the crime of using the personal or financial information of another person to commit fraud, such as making unauthorized transactions or purchases
Image: Unsplash
Identity theft is committed in many different ways and its victims are typically left with damage to their credit, finances or reputation
Image: Unsplash
Cybercriminals use others' credit card details, health data, Aadhaar cards, PAN cards, driving licences and other such personal information for a variety of illegal activities
Image: Unsplash
Thieves may either directly use the victim's personal identifiable information or sell that on the dark web
Image: Unsplash
Anyone can be a victim of identity theft. However, children and ageing adults are particularly vulnerable
Image: Pexels
Signs you may be a victim of identity theft include missing bills or mail suddenly stopping, possibly due to scammers changing your address to access your sensitive information
Image: Pexels
If you notice unknown transactions or withdrawals from your bank account, it could be a sign of identity theft
Image: Pexels
Additionally, check for unusual activity in your accounts, such as unknown accounts being opened or changes made, as this signals potential identity theft
Image: Unsplash
If legitimate requests for transactions, loans or credit cards are being denied, it may also indicate someone tampered with your credit
Image: Pexels
Be cautious. Do not click on unknown or suspicious links received through mail, SMS or WhatsApp, and ignore malicious pop-ups
Image: Unsplash
To prevent identity theft, shred documents with personal information, such as old bills and financial statements
Image: Unsplash
Check More Stories
Image: Unsplash
ndtv.com