IDENTITY THEFT
What is Identity Theft?  FTC Videos
Why Care
How it Happens
SCAMS
What to do if it happens
Identity theft is when someone steals personal information and uses it, such as your:
- Name & address
- Social security number
- Credit card number & expiration date
- ATM/Debit card number and personal identification number
Why Should I Care About Identity Theft?
Because those between the ages of 24 and 30 are the second largest group of victims.
Unfortunately, it is typically commited by someone you know - an acquaintance, roommate, and even family member.
How it Happens?
Below is a list of the common ways.
| Type |
Method |
Shoulder surfing |
By l istening or reading about your personal information |
Dumpster diving |
Looking in garbage and dumpsters for information. |
Internet hacking |
Accessing your information via the Internet. |
Stealing |
Taking your wallet or laptop when you aren't looking. |
Phishing |
Sending pop-up messages to your computer requesting information. |
Scam |
Selling you something that may not exist. |
Fraud |
Misrepresenting the truth. |
How to Avoid Identity Theft - think S. C. A. M. S.
Share your personal information on with those you trust or know.
Check your financial information regularly and look for what should be there and what shouldn't.
Access your credit report periodically to review it for accuracy.
Maintain your personal records.
Shred any documents with personal information when discarding them.
It is important to protect any personal information, including:
- Bank account information.
- Credit and debit numbers.
- Personal identification numbers.
- Passwords.
- Social security numbers.
- Incoming and outgoing mail.
- Bank statements, utilities bills, phone bills, insurance bills and other payments.
- Online information.
What to do if It Happens to You
You will need to take action to report that you either know or suspect it has happened. It important to contact these organizations to put it on record that you may be a victim of identity theft.
Financial Services
Administration Building, Fourth Floor (map) (How to use the map link)
Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Phone: 410-704-5269
Fax: 410-704-4910
E-mail: mfortier@towson.edu
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