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How Does Identity Theft Happen?
Identity theft occurs when someone steals personal information to impersonate another individual. This can happen through various means:
- Data breaches: Attackers may expose your personal information and sell it on the dark web.
- Lost or stolen possessions: Thieves can steal your wallet, phone, mail, or other documents containing personal information.
- Malware: Malicious software can infect your devices, allowing someone to control or monitor your activities.
- Unsecured browsing: Using unsecured Wi-Fi networks or scam websites can expose your information to attackers.
- Phishing: Criminals may send emails, texts, or voice messages to trick you into sharing personal information.
- Card skimming: Devices attached to card readers can steal information from your debit and credit cards.
- Personal theft: Family members, friends, or roommates may use your personal information without consent.
What Is Personally Identifiable Information (PII)?
Personally Identifiable Information (PII) is data that can distinguish one person from another. Examples include:
- Full name
- Home address
- Birth date and place
- Email addresses
- Phone number
- Social Security number (SSN)
- Biometric data
- Medical records
- Passport number
- Driver’s license number
- Credit or debit card numbers
- Employment information
- Insurance information
What Can Identity Thieves Do With Your PII?
Identity thieves can use your PII in various ways:
- Sell your PII: Thieves may sell your information on the dark web or social media.
- Take over accounts: Criminals can access your bank, credit card, phone, and other accounts to steal funds or valuable items.
- Use your account: Fraudsters may convince your card issuer to add them as an authorized user or request checks from your bank.
- Apply for new accounts: Thieves can open new credit cards, bank accounts, or loans in your name.
- Get medical procedures: Medical identity theft can result in fraudulent use of your health insurance.
- File a tax return: Criminals may file a fraudulent tax return to receive a large refund.
- Apply for government benefits: Thieves can use your information to apply for unemployment or other benefits.
How to Protect Your Personally Identifiable Information
Protecting your PII requires ongoing effort. Here are some steps to help you stay safe:
Protecting Your PII Online
- Create unique and strong passwords for all your accounts.
- Enable multifactor authentication (MFA).
- Install the latest updates for your devices.
- Avoid logging into accounts on public Wi-Fi networks.
- Learn to spot and avoid phishing emails.
Protecting Your PII Offline
- Never carry your Social Security card in your wallet.
- Add passwords to all your devices.
- Retrieve mail from your mailbox promptly.
- Shred documents containing PII before disposal.
- Do not respond to unsolicited requests for PII.
- Request a free Identity Protection PIN from the IRS.
What to Do if Your PII Is Compromised
If your PII is compromised, take the following steps:
- Regularly check your account statements.
- Look for unexpected statements, bills, or application rejection letters.
- Add transaction or balance notifications to your accounts.
- Sign up for free credit monitoring.
- Freeze your credit or place a fraud alert.
If you suspect identity theft, notify the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.org, your local police department, and the organization where the fraud occurred.
See if Your PII Is Already on the Dark Web
Data breaches may have compromised your PII. Check if your SSN, email, or phone number is on the dark web with a free scan. You can also use Experian’s personal privacy scan to see what PII is publicly available. For ongoing monitoring, consider a program like Experian IdentityWorksSM.
For any mortgage service needs, contact O1ne Mortgage at 213-732-3074. We are here to assist you with the best mortgage solutions.
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