Common identity theft scams and how to avoid them
People can never let their guard down when it comes to identity theft. Commonly stolen data includes addresses, credit card numbers, bank account information, Social Security numbers, or medical insurance numbers.
Though thieves can gather information by intercepting it through digital channels or simply by stealing mail or going through trash, many times people inadvertently share personal information with scammers themselves.
• Phone scams. Phone scams may involve telemarketers trying to sell something in exchange for personal information, as well as people impersonating government agencies or credit card companies. “Please confirm account information” or “we’ll need your financial information to process” are some of the phrases these scams utilize. Never give out personal information over the phone unless the individual on the other end is confirmed to be legitimate.
• Text links. Scammers utilize text messages to try to gain information. The text includes a link to a site that will request personal information. Do not respond to such texts and avoid clicking on the links.
• Phishing emails. Phishing emails look like they are coming from legitimate sources, but they often contain malware that can infiltrate computers and other devices to steal identity data.
• Medicarecardverification. Older adults are often being called, emailed or even visited in person by scammers claiming to represent Medicare. Perpetrators of this scam offer new services or new chipped Medicare cards in exchange for verification of Medicare identification numbers. Medicare numbers should be carefully guarded, and people should keep in mind it is highly unlikely for a Medicare representative to contact them this way.
• Data breaches. Security experts indicate many major companies are being breached. By the time it is discovered that the personal information was stolen, it has been circulating for some time. While it’s impossible for people to prevent this type of data breach, a credit monitoring service can alert consumers if their information shows up where it seemingly doesn’t belong.
