Our identity is precious. It is that thing that distinguishes us from other people or that which associates us to a group of people, like gender identities or cultural identities. Because of this broad sense of identity, modes of identification have been used in order to single out a certain person, making him unique.
In each country, identification numbers are used as a mode to track its citizens, temporary residents and permanent residents for government functions such as taxation, health care and government benefits; therefore, these numbers are vital since they serve as attestations to our identity. The problem now is that our identities are being attacked by malevolent thieves for their vile purposes, thus, it is important to know about identity theft prevention measures.
But first, what is identity theft? Identity theft is the fraudulent act of acquiring personal information from an unsuspecting victim. Simple information like the victim’s name, address, birth date and phone numbers are enough for a thief to carry out his scam. These information are used to manipulate the person’s finances, his activities, and even modify the same information in hand like his address.
Once the thief starts to make a move, a victim who is unaware of identity theft prevention techniques can easily fall for the thief’s trap. An identity thief can move by simple stealing or pickpocket, garbage rummaging, or by phishing. Phishing is a process used by identity thieves to trick a user into surrendering his personal information via the internet. It is usually done through emails or instant messages wherein the said emails pose as authentic messages from legitimate establishments.
When the thief successfully gathers the information he needs, he may then move to change the person’s address, open bank accounts or credit accounts, rent apartments, apply for new loans or mortgages or gain credit all in the name of the victim. Imagine the damage this can cause. A victim can have accumulated debts or unpaid bills because of the address change the thief did to cover his tracks. His reputation for having a good credit can be destroyed!
Aside from gaining access to credits and benefits, the thief may also use a person’s information in criminal records. He gives out another person’s name and information to the police so that when he does not show for the arraignment, the victim will be the one sought out by the police. All these can happen with the victim unaware of it. A victim may only find out about the crime months after it has been committed, especially if they are ignorant of identity theft prevention.
Recovery from damages caused by identity theft is hard and may take on a long process. Having to clear your name for charges you have not made may be one of the depressing situations a person can go through. Your criminal and credit history is tarnished. Processing of certain applications will be delayed if not denied. You will have to explain a lot about your ruined reputation, all because you were not aware. You were not vigilant. You were ignorant of identity theft prevention measures that could have thwarted thieves and saved you. Well, it’s not too late! Act now and protect yourself!
