DEALING WITH IDENTITY THEFT Identity theft is a criminal action where in an individual assumes the identity of another person, basically to enable the criminal obtain the resources and other benefits of the unfortunate victim. An individual whose identity is stolen can face serious trouble since his/her credit card; bank account etc can become easily accessible to the identity thief. Identity theft is usually done with a view to committing identity fraud. Once a person’s personal details like Date of birth, Pin number and passwords are decoded it becomes easy to gain access to their emails and account details. Criminals and fraudsters can deploy the identity details of others to- • -Obtain loans and credits • -Buy goods • -Open bank accounts • -Drain victims bank accounts • -Access phone and email contacts • -Obtain international passports and drivers license. All this portend danger for the reputation of the victim, since he/she will be held liable for the expenses incurred. How can email users escape the activities of identity thieves? When you receive an unsolicited email from an institution that appears like you bank or credit/debit card issuer asking you to provide security details like password or other login details, do not divulge any information. Legitimate financial institutions will not request you pin, security number and password. Such unsolicited email may be the scheme of an identity thief. However, if you believe or suspect that sensitive details in your email have been compromised and that this can negatively affect you, then you must immediately report it to the appropriate authority, for example, your bank or card issuer. They will then look into the issue and report any criminal case to the police. Also be equally cautious when using other modes of communication. Never divulge your sensitive details through phone to suspicious persons, even if they appear legitimate. It is very important that you enjoy the benefits of the email and the internet without experiencing the problems associated with identity theft.
Posted on: Sat, 02 Nov 2013 07:23:56 +0000
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