As information theft is once again on the rise, people are wondering what information is needed for identity theft. This article aims to provide tips to help individuals minimize the harmful consequences and safeguard themselves against identity theft.
Learn About What Information is Needed for Identity Theft (Photo: University of Minnesota)
What Information is Needed for Identity Theft?
It is quite a shock that it is easier to steal someone’s identity and you may ask what information is needed for identity theft.
The Information Commissioner’s Office has provided information to help people identify of what information is needed for identity theft.
According to ICO, what information is needed for identity theft is a person’s name, address, and date of birth, which can provide enough information to create another person. Moreover, there are other methods to find out a person’s personal information that can be used to open a bank account, take out credit cards, and apply for state benefits under someone’s name.
How to Protect Oneself From Identity Theft?
According to ABC, many scammers could take your information and use it to apply to banks and state benefits. However, now that you are aware of how and what information is needed for identity theft, you can protect yourself from the potential threat that could steal your information.
If you think your identity has been stolen, you can visit IdentityTheft.gov where officials will provide you a recovery plan. Moreover, FTC also provided a list of signs that your identity has been stolen such as receiving bills for purchases you did not make, inaccurate information on your credit report, being denied for loan applications, a missing tax refund or government benefits, and more.
If you notice what information is needed for identity theft that has been stolen from you, you can go to the Federal Trade Commission online at IdentityTheft.gov or call 1-877-438-4338.
Further, to protect yourself from identity theft, you must not share what information is needed for identity theft with other people especially information that should be private such as bank account number or social security number.
READ ALSO: $1M Jackpot Still Up For Grabs As Mega Millions Winner Fails To Show Up
