What do thieves do with a stolen identity?

What do thieves do with a stolen identity?

Identity thieves can steal your personal information directly or indirectly by: Stealing your wallets and purses containing identification cards, credit cards and bank information. Stealing your mail including credit and bank statements, phone or utility bills, new checks, and tax information.

What kind of crimes make use of stolen identity?

Identity thieves can also use your identity when they commit other crimes, such as entering (or exiting) a country illegally, trafficking drugs, smuggling other substances, committing cyber crimes, laundering money and much more. In fact, they can use your identity to commit almost any crime imaginable in your name.

What is identity theft and what techniques do identity thieves use?

Identity theft is categorized in two ways: true name and account takeover. True-name identity theft means the thief uses personal information to open new accounts. The thief might open a new credit card account, establish cellular phone service or open a new checking account to obtain blank checks.

What should you do if your identity is stolen?

10 Things to Do if Your Identity Is Stolen

1. File a claim with your identity theft insurance, if applicable.
2. Notify companies of your stolen identity.
3. File a report with the Federal Trade Commission.
4. Contact your local police department.
5. Place a fraud alert on your credit reports.
6. Freeze your credit.

What information does someone need to steal your identity?

How Much Information is Needed for Someone to Steal Your Identity…

• Your Name.
• Your Address.
• Your Email Address.
• Your Social Security Number.
• Official Documents, Like Your Passport or Driver’s License.
• Card Information.
• Account Information.
• The Potential Damage.

What can scammer do with my name and address?

With a name and address, a thief can change your address via U.S. Postal Service and redirect mail to their address of choice, Velasquez says. With access to your financial mail, the thief may intercept bank statements and credit card offers or bills, then order new checks and credit cards.