Identity theft is a type of crime where someone purposefully obtains another person’s information for the purpose of fraud or deception. In the 21st century, our information is being broadcasted digitally in many different locations. Every single day people are signing their signature or passing out their credit card information in front of others. Once damage has been done, it is very hard to set things right, especially financially.
To avoid having your identity stolen, there are a number of steps you can take. First among these is to try and avoid potentially damaging situations. For instance, try to recognize if something is a scam. While the internet is a wonderful tool, it is far easier to create and run a scam on-line than it is in person. If you have the slightest suspicion about a website, don’t buy on that site. Or, if you must buy on that site, try to be very cautious about what personal information you give out.
If your identity is stolen, call/e-mail the Federal Trade Commission: http://www.ftc.gov
You want to immediately contact your bank to explain the situation, your credit card company to put a block on any possible charges and request a new card, and the social security administration: (http://www.ssa.gov/oig/guidelin.htm).
It is also a good idea to contact the IRS – sometimes you can get your identity and money back but the IRS might still believe you made those hefty purchases or committed fraud: http://www.irs.gov/individuals/article/0,,id=136412,00.html
Prevention is your best defense against identity theft. Be cautious and check your information like your bank account regularly.