Definition |
What Identity Thieves Want |
Identity theft is a crime where the thief uses a person's personal information such as a social security number, driver's license number, birth certificate or credit card account number to obtain credit, services, or merchandise; provide the thief with false credentials; open bank accounts for blank checks and take out loans, or to commit fraud.
What are Credit Reports?Credit reports contain information about your credit history including opening and closing of accounts, bill repayment information, and the status of your credit accounts. These reports will tell you and anyone you want to work for or borrow money from if you make your payments on time, how much credit you have available, how much credit you are currently, and status of money you owe.
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Social Security Number is given by the government and is unique to each person. It tracks social security benefits and has other identification purposes. With this number thieves can open accounts and take out loans in your name.
Email Addresses allow thieves to send you fraudulent emails acting as your bank or other organization asking for additional personal information. Account Numbers from checking, savings, retirement, investment, credit card, and debit card accounts give thieves access to your money and credit. Your Banking PINs act as passwords to your account and allow thieves to withdraw funds. |
There are two types of identity theft, True Name and Account Takeover. True Name uses personal information to open new accounts. Examples include opening checking accounts to obtain blank checks, opening credit card accounts, and taking out loans. Account Takeover is when the impostor uses personal information to gain access to existing accounts. The thief then changes the mailing or email address so the victim is unaware of fraudulent charges.
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