Identity theft which is also known as identity fraud is the unauthorized use of your personal data such as your name, mother’s maiden name, credit card, postal address and telephone numbers by a third party. Identity theft is illegal and is crime when used for fraudulent purposes and other illegal activities.
Typically, identity theft is done to commit deception or financial fraud. Example: Buying merchandise and services using stolen credit card information. This happens both online and offline. With more and more individuals using internet for shopping, the problem of identity theft in the form of stolen credit card numbers and phone numbers are increasing. The thief who had stolen you identity purchases and services and you will end up receiving bills. While it is possible to prove the case of identity theft, it takes lot of time and some times costs money to prove that you haven’t made such a purchase or authorized anyone to do so; on your behalf. Trust me the process is lot more painful than you can imagine. It is always better to protect your identity from thieves than proving your innocence.
The identity theft victims include people who are financially sound as well as citizens who do not have much bank balance including college students. College students and others who don’t have hefty bank balance might not take care to protect their financial data. As a result identity thieves use this information for illegal purpose. And when it is time for the young men to start a career, they will soon realize that their credit score is damaged by some id thief.