Read this tip to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Introduction to Identity Theft and other Identity Theft topics.
Although information on identity theft is widely available, many consumers remain uncertain of the differences between identity fraud and identity theft.
Quite simply, identity fraud consists primarily of someone your personal information without your knowledge or consent. Identity fraud can be financial, such as unauthorized use of your credit card or conducting unauthorized transactions from your existing accounts such as bank transfers and ATM withdrawals. Identity fraud can also take a criminal shape, when someone perpetrates a crime while assuming your identity.
The definition of identity theft is when someone steals your personal identifying information, such as your name, date of birth, credit card numbers or Social Security number. While identity theft is a crime, you don't feel the impact until the identity thief has actually done something with your stolen personal information, i.e. commits identity fraud. The challenge we face as consumers is that an identity thief can wait years before acting, catching you and the authorities off-guard.
Regardless of the distinction that can be made between identity fraud and identity theft, the recommendations for consumers to prevent and protect against them is the same and include:
Protection of your personal information is key to prevention.
Guru Spotlight |
PJ Campbell |