What methods do identity thieves use to access personal information?

Identity thieves use a variety of methods to access personal information. In Illinois, some of the common techniques used include phishing, cloning, and skimming. Phishing is a method of fraud using emails or texts that appear to be sent from a legitimate business. These messages often contain links that lead to websites which ask for personal information such as Social Security numbers, passwords, and bank account numbers. Cloning is another method that involves creating an exact copy of an individual’s identity documents or financial cards. Skimming is used when criminals gain access to credit or debit cards and create a duplicate card with stolen information. In addition to the methods mentioned above, there are other techniques used by identity thieves. These include dumpster diving, shoulder surfing, and social engineering. Dumpster diving involves looking through trash for discarded personal information. Shoulder surfing is when someone looks over a person’s shoulder to view their bank account or credit card number. Lastly, social engineering involves creating false identities online to gain access to sensitive information. It is important to be aware of the methods used by identity thieves to protect yourself from fraud and identity theft. Taking steps such as regularly monitoring financial statements and using strong passwords can help reduce the risk. It’s also important to be aware of what information is shared online and to always shred important documents before discarding them.

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What methods do identity thieves use to access personal information?

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