Updated: 10 May 2025
What is Identity Theft?
Identity theft is a serious crime where someone wrongfully obtains and uses another person's personal identifying information for fraud or deception, typically for economic gain. This can include your name, Social Security number, credit card numbers, bank account details, or medical insurance information.
Once thieves have this data, they can impersonate you to commit various fraudulent acts, leading to significant financial and emotional distress.
How Does Identity Theft Occur?
- Data Breaches: Hackers target businesses and organisations to steal customer databases.
- Phishing, Smishing, Vishing: Fraudulent emails, texts, or calls trick you into revealing data.
- Malware: Spyware and keyloggers capture your credentials without knowledge.
- Unsecured Wi-Fi: Public networks expose your data to interception.
- Mail Theft: Physical mail containing sensitive documents.
- Skimming: Illegal devices on ATMs capture card information.
- Social Engineering: Manipulation to divulge confidential information.
- Lost/Stolen Devices: Physical theft of phones, laptops, or wallets.
Consequences of Identity Theft
- Financial Loss: Unauthorized withdrawals, fraudulent charges, loans in your name.
- Damaged Credit: Ruined credit history affecting loans, mortgages, and employment.
- Legal Issues: Wrongful association with crimes committed by the thief.
- Tax Fraud: Fraudulent tax returns filed in your name.
- Medical Identity Theft: Incorrect medical records and bills.
- Emotional Distress: Stress, anxiety, and feeling of violation.
- Time-Consuming Recovery: Clearing your name requires significant effort.
How to Protect Your Identity
- Strong, Unique Passwords: Use a password manager and enable 2FA everywhere.
- Be Wary of Phishing: Don't click suspicious links; verify requests directly.
- Secure Your Devices: Antivirus software and regular updates.
- Protect Documents: Shred sensitive papers, store important docs securely.
- Monitor Accounts: Check statements and credit reports regularly.
- Careful on Public Wi-Fi: Use a VPN for sensitive activities.
- Limit Information Sharing: Be mindful on social media.
- Consider Protection Services: Monitoring and recovery assistance.
Top Identity Protection Providers
Our Pick: NordProtect
NordProtect offers comprehensive identity theft protection, leveraging Nord Security's expertise to safeguard your digital life with proactive monitoring and robust recovery support.
- 24/7 Dark Web Monitoring: Scans for your leaked personal information.
- Credit Monitoring & Alerts: Tracks your credit report for suspicious activity.
- Recovery Support: Dedicated case managers guide you through restoration.
- Identity Theft Insurance: Coverage for expenses from identity theft.
- Online Fraud Coverage: Reimbursement for certain fraud incidents.
- Security Alerts: Notifications of potential threats and breaches.
Other highly-regarded identity protection services:
Aura
Comprehensive all-in-one protection bundling identity, financial, and device security.
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LifeLock by Norton
Long-standing provider with monitoring services and Norton 360 device security.
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Experian IdentityWorks
From a major credit bureau with credit monitoring and dark web surveillance.
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IdentityForce
Robust protection for individuals and families including social media monitoring.
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