Identity theft is when your personal details are stolen and identity fraud is when those details are used to commit fraudulent acts. Nobody ever expects to be victims of such crimes but when fraudsters access your information about someone’s identity such as their name, date of birth, current or previous addresses. Identity theft can take place whether the victim is alive or dead.
It is imperative that one shares their personal information with companies or individuals that have the capabilities to safe guard their data with proper storage or processes. Should your details fall in the wrong hands it could make life difficult for you to obtain loans, credit cards or a mortgage and until the matter is resolved.
Identity fraud can be described as the use of stolen identity in criminal activities to obtain goods or services by deception. Your identity can be used to open bank accounts, order goods in your name, take over your accounts and obtaining genuine documents such as passports and driving licences in your name.
Therefore the next time you give out your details either orally or written – know that you have a right to request where and how your details will be used and stored and for how long? In addition, needless to say but don’t throw your personal documents in the rubbish as many prey on going through your trash hoping to find something that they could pose to be you!
Sass Co. 