How Your Identity Can Be Stolen

The concept does sound challenging at first, doesn't it? Stealing a person's identity? Unfortunately for millions of Americans, it can be a very simple thing to do. But there are ways to fight back. Consumers can work to prevent major identity theft by taking an active role in protecting their information and by enlisting the services of a trusted identity theft prevention service. Still, it's important to know how identity thieves go about their business. Here are some of the common techniques employed by thieves to take on the identity of unsuspecting consumers:

Trash diving: Sure, it seems a bit icky, but your trash can provide a ton of information about yourself. Think about all of those private-detective scenes in movies: The hero always is able to figure out information by going through someone's trash. By going through your trash, a thief can find out your account numbers, spending habits and other personal information. This is why it's recommended to shred your statements or, even better, request electronic billing which eliminates a paper trail.
Picking through your mail: Consider this the cleaner, more sanitized version of dumpster diving. Your mail gives thieves hundreds of clues and leads about your identity and spending habits. A thief could steal a credit card solicitation in your mailbox, find out where you like to shop, or find out all of your account numbers. This is why experts strongly recommend eliminating junk mail and requesting electronic statements. An identity theft prevention service will work on your behalf to curb junk mail - which will, in turn, give thieves fewer opportunities to steal your identity.
Skimming: This term applies to technologically savvy thieves who have devices that steal your credit card information when you make a purchase. This could occur at a restaurant or at any other retail outlet where you use a credit card to make a purchase. It can happen almost immediately and without your knowledge. To avoid skimming, be sure to read your bank statements each month and verify that the charges listed are accurate. Some particularly shrewd identity thieves will use the same card for months, making a few small purchases on occasion that unsuspecting consumers would never notice.
Change of address: Your mail could move even though you don't. An identity thief could process a change of address, which means he/she will receive all your mail and can steal your identity without the effort associated with stealing mail directly from your mailbox.
Phishing: This term applies to thieves who try to trick consumers into providing personal information, usually over the Internet. This is why your bank often sends reminders that they "will never ask for your personal information." Be very wary of e-mails or pop-up messages from someone claiming to be a representative of your bank, credit card provider or retail store. Don't feel shy about refusing to provide information.
Theft: Consider this "old school" identity theft. A thief can steal your purse or wallet and have access for a brief period of time to your credit cards and bank accounts.