Ways of Identity Theft:

INTERNET: Online “phishing” has become very popular. ID thefts occur when you receive emails from people posing as legitimate companies asking for your contact or credit card information. Some will directly ask you to send them a check.

• RECORDS: ID thieves can hack your records through a computer, pay off company employees to gain access to your records, or even steal the records directly from a company. “Dumpster diving,” which is sifting through trash, is another way they can gain access to your records or mail.

• MAIL: ID thieves can easily steal your mail, including bank and credit card statements, credit card offers, checks, tax information and more. They will even steal the mail you leave for the postman if your mailbox isn’t secure. They may fill out a change of address form in your name and send it back – so they receive your mail.

• ATMs: ID thieves can capture your ATM Card information using a technique called “skimming” They get your information by attaching a data storage device to an ATM machine and get your information when you swipe your card.

• DIRECT THEFT: ID thieves may steal your wallet, purse, or financial information from your house. They will then use your credit cards, ATM cards, checks and any personal information they find for their own financial gain.

**If any of the above applies to you, you may be a victim of Identity theft.

What was in your wallet and/or purse?
• Your Social Security card
• Military ID card
• Medicare or Medical card
• Social Security cards (or numbers) for any other family members, i.e. spouse, children
• Social Security number (SSN) printed on card
• Driver’s license
• Credit cards (itemize)
• Vehicle registration papers
• ATM/Debit cards/Bank cards
• Health insurance/ prescription/ dental benefit card- did it have your SSN on it?
• Professional licenses (doctor, nurse, etc.)
• Employee or student ID card- did it have your SSN on it?
• Green card or immigration papers
• Passport
• Any bills/ statements you may have been carrying (i.e., telephone, electricity, credit card)
• Birth certificate
• Store club cards (supermarket, Sams Club, Costco..)
• AAA or other auto insurance card
• Library card
• Video store card- (i.e. Blockbuster)
• Health club card- did it have your SSN on it?
• Discount cards or annual passes (movie, amusement parks)