According to the FTC, identity theft and related fraud complaints increased by 20% in 2021.

This number is alarming, and what is worse is that it grows higher each year. Although women have more instances of having their identities stolen than men, both women and men are susceptible to scammers. Sadly, older adults are prime targets for scammers, as seniors tend to have better credit and more assets and are more forthcoming in offering personal details that can be used to steal their identities.

Identity theft and internet fraud can cause major headaches to their victims. Identity theft occurs when someone takes another person's personal information, such as their birthday, address, or social security number, and uses it to create new accounts.

Identity fraud occurs when another person's information is used to commit a crime, illegally use a credit card, commit an online crime, or even apply for a bank loan.

It is essential to be vigilant in protecting yourself from identity theft and internet fraud, as criminals are becoming more sophisticated in obtaining potential victims' information.

Protect Your Information

There are many ways to protect yourself from having your identity stolen. First, never offer your personal information or details over a non-secure network or website. Protect your PINs as you shop by ensuring no one looks over your shoulder or can see the numbers if you enter them on the keypad.

Shredding old mail and documents is also a great way to minimize your risk of becoming a victim of identity theft and fraud. You should also check your mail often, as someone could easily obtain your name and address just by picking up some of your discarded or ignored correspondence.

You should also make copies of the front and back of all important documents, such as your driver's license, social security cards, passports, birth certificates, etc., and keep them in a separate and secure location away from the original documents so you can access your information quickly should it be stolen.

Fake Websites and Apps

In today's technology world, you probably have more than 10-20 apps on your phones and tablets for various reasons. Unfortunately, because consumers are comfortable adding apps, scammers have found ways to use apps to access victims' information.

With the rise of online shopping, consumers rarely think twice about offering bank account information, addresses, and other details that can be used fraudulently.

Pay attention to logos and company messaging to securely verify you are submitting your information to a real business or company.

Phishing Emails and Texts

Cybercriminals have become very savvy, sending you emails that look just like those of your bank or other businesses you use. These emails can look nearly identical, but typically, they ask you to follow a link or provide sensitive information. No institution would ask you via email or text to confirm sensitive data.

Phishing emails and texts often contain spelling or formatting errors, so look for those. When asked to follow a link in an email, be sure to check not only the sender's name but also the actual email address. If you're not sure, log into your account separately for that business to see if there are any take-action alerts. If not, report the phishing to them.

Check Your Credit Report

Regardless of your vigilance in protecting your identity, you may fall victim to one of the many ways identity theft and internet fraud occur.

Check your credit reports quarterly to ensure no one has opened a fake account in your name or incurred debt with your details. If you find a false account or information you don't recognize in your name, immediately contact the company and the FTC to file a complaint.

As we become more reliant on technology, scammers will continue to exist, looking to profit from someone else's misfortune.

We encourage you to use discretion online when sharing personal information, even on your social media accounts, to avoid being scammed and falling victim to identity theft or internet fraud.