What is Identity Theft and how can I Protect Myself

Identity theft is the fraudulent acquisition and use of someone’s private identifying information; usually for financial gain. Becoming a victim of identity theft can be a long and difficult process once you find out you have been victimized. Identity thieves target anyone that has a name, address and social security number. This means that no one is exempt from becoming a possible victim. Millions are victimized every year and most people have no idea where to even start when they find out they have been targeted in this way.

What do Identity Thieves Want?

These criminals can use your information in many different ways. They can buy cars, apply for credit cards, turn on utilities, and even put it down for approval on an apartment. They can also use your current credit such as credit lines and credit cards to charge items that you are not aware of. The first moment that you may recognize you have a problem is when you check your credit history or when you look through your bank or credit card statements.

How did Identity Thieves get my Information?

There are many different ways that these thieves can get your information. The first way is the old fashioned way; stealing purses and wallets to get access to your information. In our new day and age of technology this is no longer the only way. The criminals can use RFID – Radio Frequency Identification to get your information wirelessly. They can also go through your dumpsters looking for any papers that have what they need. They can use a process called skimming. This is when they attach a specialized device to retrieve your card information when you swipe it for a normal purchase. They can also use phishing. This is when they call or message/email you pretending to be a bank or credit card company that is asking you to verify your credit information. Once this information is in their hands they can use it for their own benefit.

What do I do after I have been Victimized?

After you know that you have been victimized what to do next can be extremely frustrating to think about. You have to decide how to stop the activity and how to correct what has already happened. Hiring a Private Investigator like Advanced Private Investigator and Security can be a great way to start. We can tell you who to contact and how to stop most of the activity that you are already aware of as well as the activity you should be aware of. Many identity theft cases are unsolved by law enforcement. Hiring a private investigator will show the police that you are determined to solve the case. You can have the private investigator liaison with the police. Many times the perpetrators are known to the victim. A P.I can possibly determine who is behind the theft and help get the police this information so that the offender(s) can be prosecuted and will not continue victimizing you. Contact Advanced Private Investigator and Security today!