Your Identity Is Free Game

The digital age is upon us. It certainly makes things much more efficient with the internet and all, but it comes with a definite price. Where there are profits, there is crime and the web is no different. In this case, we are talking data breach and identity theft.

Data breaches and the resulting identity theft situations are a definite price of the modern computer age. The first step is, of course, the data breach which is simple some act that successfully eludes a security system to access financial information.

Many people think the goal of a data breach is to get your bank account or credit card information. The sophisticated criminal, however, really wants your social security number, address and phone number. This info can be used to open new accounts.

The average database does not contain all these golden nuggets of info. To fill in the gaps, the criminal element will steal your email address and start emailing you fraudulent messages to try to entice you to provide it.

So, how do these emails work? They are typically tailored to appear as though they are from a company you are readily aware of. They then offer to upsell you one something great if you click through and supply your financial information.

Okay, the criminal element now has your information. What are they going to do with it? Make money, of course! There are a variety of methods for doing this, but two are the most popular.

The most obvious form of identity theft is in the form of credit cards. Criminals will either use your current card numbers to make online transactions or they may go out and open new credit card accounts in your name.

The open a new account scam is an old one. A new way criminals are making money with your info has to do with another opportunity appearing in society. Simply put, they sell your full identity for actual use in day-to-day life.

Some people need to leave behind a torrid past. It might be criminal. It might be personal problems. Whatever the reason, some people will pay to get your identity and start living a second life under your name and profile.

Illegal immigrants are the second reason. Many parts of the country now require you to have a social security number to hold a job. Illegal immigrants do not. Guess what they are willing to buy?

Despite assurances from credit card companies and the government, identity theft is here to stay. It is a relatively small price we pay for the efficiency of modern life. Be careful with your information and monitor your credit report.