IDENTITY THEFT

Table of contents

01 02
Introduction Common Tactics

03 04
Types Prevention
 01
INTRODUCTION
 IDENTITY THEFT
Identity theft is the crime of using the personal or financial information of
another person to commit fraud, such as making unauthorized transactions
or purchases.

Identity theft is committed in many different ways and its victims are
typically left with damage to their credit, finances, and reputation.
 SIGNIFICANCE AND PREVALENCE
Identity theft is a serious issue globally, affecting millions annually. It involves
unauthorized access to personal information for fraudulent purposes, such as
financial gain. Prevalence has grown with increasing digital transactions,
emphasizing the importance of safeguarding personal data to prevent such
incidents.
 02
Common Tactics
 PHISHING EMAILS AND SCAMS
● Phishing emails are common tactics in identity theft,
where scammers pose as legitimate entities to trick
individuals into revealing sensitive information.
 DATA BREACHES
● Data breaches contribute significantly to identity theft,
exposing large volumes of personal information.
Cybercriminals exploit these breaches to commit fraud,
emphasizing the need for robust cybersecurity measures
and prompt response to mitigate the impact on
individuals.
 SOCIAL ENGINEERING
● Social engineering is a key tactic in identity theft,
involving manipulation to deceive individuals into
disclosing confidential information. Attackers often
exploit trust or create a sense of urgency, emphasizing
the importance of awareness and caution to thwart such
attempts.
 03
Types of Identity
Theft
Common Tactics

FINANCIAL IDENTITY THEFT

● Financial identity theft occurs when someone unlawfully
acquires and exploits another person's financial information,
like credit card details or bank account data, for fraudulent
activities such as unauthorized transactions or opening accounts
in the victim's name.
Common Tactics

MEDICAL IDENTITY THEFT

● Medical identity theft happens when someone uses another
person's information to receive medical care, obtain prescription
drugs, or submit false insurance claims. This unauthorized use can
lead to incorrect medical records, financial losses, and potential
harm to the victim's health. Guarding personal medical information
and reviewing healthcare statements regularly are crucial to
prevent and detect such incidents.
Common Tactics

CRIMINAL IDENTITY THEFT

● Criminal identity theft occurs when someone falsely uses another
person's identity to commit crimes. This may involve providing the
victim's information when interacting with law enforcement,
leading to legal consequences for the innocent party. Preventive
measures include safeguarding personal information and
monitoring for any unusual legal issues or arrests.
 04
Prevention Tips
Common Tactics

STRONG, UNIQUE PASSWORDS

● Using strong, unique passwords for each online account is an
easy and effective way to prevent identity theft. This adds a
layer of security, reducing the risk if one password is
compromised. Combine letters, numbers, and symbols for
stronger passwords, and update them regularly for added
protection.
Common Tactics

TWO-FACTOR AUTHENTICATION
● Enable two-factor authentication for added protection against
identity theft. This extra layer requires a second verification
step, usually a code sent to your phone, making it harder for
unauthorized users to access your accounts even if they have
your password.
Common Tactics

MONITORING FINANCIAL
ACCOUNTS
● Prevent identity theft by regularly monitoring your financial
accounts. Keep a close eye on your bank and credit card
statements for any unusual or unauthorized transactions.
Promptly reporting any suspicious activity adds an extra layer
of protection against potential fraud.
Common Tactics

BEING CAUTIOUS WITH PERSONAL

INFORMATION ONLINE
● To prevent identity theft, be cautious with personal information
online. Avoid sharing sensitive details on unsecured websites
and social media. Think twice before clicking on links or
sharing personal data. Vigilance in online interactions helps
safeguard against potential identity theft risks.
CONCLUSION
Common Tactics

RECAP KEY POINTS

● Secure Passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for each account.

● Two-Factor Authentication: Enable this extra layer of security.
● Monitor Finances: Regularly check and report any unusual transactions.
● Caution Online: Be careful with personal info on websites and social media.
● Beware of Scams: Stay vigilant against phishing and social engineering
attempts.
Common Tactics

Conclusion
In summary, identity theft is the crime of using someone's personal or financial
information for fraudulent purposes, causing damage to their credit, finances, and
reputation. It's a significant global issue, with various tactics like phishing emails, data
breaches, and social engineering contributing to its prevalence.

There are different types of identity theft, including financial, medical, and criminal
identity theft, each posing unique risks and challenges for victims.
Common Tactics

Conclusion
To protect against identity theft, it's crucial to take proactive measures. This includes
using strong, unique passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, monitoring
financial accounts for unusual transactions, and being cautious with personal
information online.

By adopting these preventive tips, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of
falling victim to identity theft, ensuring a more secure and protected digital presence.
Thank you for
listening!!