How a thief gets your information

Skilled identity thieves use a variety of methods to gain access to your personal information. For example:

• They rummage through your trash, or the trash of businesses or dumps in a practice known as “dumpster diving.” 
• They steal credit and debit card numbers as your card is processed by using a special information storage device in a practice known as “skimming.” 
• They steal wallets and purses containing identification and credit and bank cards.
• They steal incoming or outgoing mail, including bank and credit card statements, pre-approved credit offers, new checks, or tax information, or checks made payable for balances due on existing accounts. 
• They scam information from you by posing as a legitimate business person or government official.
• They overhear your conversations at your desk, the bank, retail outlets or anywhere else you might be asked for personal information. 

The following are examples of personal information you should not give out:

• Date of birth
• Social security number 
• Driver’s license number 
• Passport number 
• Names of companies where you have credit 
• Banks where you have your bank accounts 
• Mother’s maiden name 
• Account passwords
• Other personal data

Last Updated on Tuesday, 17 July 2012 08:34