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WHAT IT IS: Dumpster Diving is when someone goes through another person's trash looking for sensitive information to steal someone's identity.  They steal personal information by searching for pieces of mail or other documents they throw in the garbage such as bills, credit card offers, bank statements, etc.

HOW TO PREVENT IT:

1. Shred all sensitive information.

2. Separate your personal information.

3. Take your receipts with you.

4. Dispose of any pre-approved credit offers.

5. Hire a professional data destruction service.

6. Deep documents under lock and key until they are destroyed.

Names (partners)

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Police warn people about identity theft through dumpster diving

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WHAT IT IS: Account Takeover Fraud is a type of identity fraud where fraudsters leverage a person's existing credentials to take control of their financial, credit, email, or social media accounts

HOW TO PREVENT IT:

1. strong, unique, and complicated password

2. security questions

3. 2/multifactor authentication

Naheva/Emilio

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Account takeover attack EXPLAINED | #CyberSeries

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WHAT IS IT: Medical Identity Theft is when someone steals your personal information (SSN, DOB, etc.) to submit fraudulent claims to Medicare and other health insurers without authorization. They can also use this information to receive prescription drugs and medical devices under your name. This can hurt your credit score, and your ability to receive medical care in the future under your insurance.

HOW TO PREVENT IT:

-> Keep prescription bottles in a safe location

-> Lock up health insurance cards

->Shread any old medical documents containing personal information

->Attempt to avoid receiving any medical information via mail

-> Take a marker to block out any information on pill bottles before disposing of them

-> Don't share any medical information over the phone with ANYONE

Ryann and Lincoln

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Learn what medical identity theft is, how to protect yourself against it, and how to know if someone is using your medical information.

What Is Medical Identity Theft?

Medical identity theft is when someone uses your personal information - like your name, Social Security number, health insurance account number or Medicare number - to see a doctor, get prescription drugs, buy medical devices, submit claims with your insurance provider, or get other medical care.

If the thief's health information is mixed with yours, it could affect the medical care you're able to get or the health insurance benefits you're able to use. It could also hurt your credit.

How To Protect Your Medical Information From Theft

Here's what you can do to protect your medical information.

Protect documents that contain your medical information

Keep your medical records, health insurance records, and any other documents with medical information in a safe place. These may include

health insurance enrollment forms

health insurance cards

prescriptions

prescription bottles

billing statements from your doctor or other medical provider

Explanation of Benefits statements from your health insurance company

An Explanation of Benefits statement tells you the doctor you visited, the date of your visit, the services the doctor provided, the cost of those services, how much your health insurance covered, and how much you'll have to pay.

When you decide to get rid of those documents, shred them before you throw them away. If you don't have a shredder, look for a local shred day. If it's something that's hard to shred - like a prescription bottle - use a marker to block out any medical and personal information.

If you get statements with medical information in the mail, take your mail out of the mailbox as soon as you can.

To limit the amount of medical information you get by mail, consider getting your medical bills or Explanation of Benefits statements online.

Ask questions before you give out your medical information

Some doctor's offices might ask for your Social Security number to identify you. Ask if they can use a different identifier or just the last four digits of your Social Security number.

If another organization asks for information like your health insurance account number or Medicare number, or for details about your health, ask these questions first:

Why do you need it?

How will you protect it?

Will you share it? If so, with whom?

Protect your medical information from scammers online and on your phone

Do not give your medical information to someone who calls, emails, or texts you unexpectedly. It could be a scammer trying to steal your information.

Instead, log in to your online medical account from a website you know is real. Or contact the company or provider using a phone number you know is real.

How To Know if Someone Is Using Your Medical Information

Besides taking steps to protect your medical information, it pays to know how to tell if someone is using your medical information. Here are some warning signs:

You get a bill from your doctor for services you didn't get.

You notice errors in your Explanation of Benefits statement like services you didn't get or prescription medications you don't take.

You get a call from a debt collector about a medical debt you don't owe.

You review your credit report and see medical debt collection notices that you don't recognize.

You get a notice from your health insurance company saying you reached your benefit limit.

You are denied insurance coverage because your medical records show a pre-existing condition you don't have.

What To Do if Someone Is Using Your Medical Information

If you think someone is using your personal information to see a doctor, get prescription drugs, buy medical devices, submit claims with your insurance provider, or get other medical care, taking these steps will help you limit the damage.

Review your medical records and report errors

1. Get your medical records. Contact each doctor, clinic, hospital, pharmacy, laboratory, and health insurance company where the thief may have used your information. Explain the situation and ask for copies of these medical records. You may have to submit records request forms and pay fees to get copies of your records.

If the provider refuses to give you copies of the records to protect the identity thief's privacy rights, you can appeal. Contact the person listed in your provider's Notice of Privacy Practices, the patient representative, or the ombudsman. Explain the situation to that person and ask for your medical records.

2. Review your medical records. Look for any errors, like visits you didn't make and services you didn't get.

3. Report errors. Report any errors to your health care provider in writing. Include a copy of the medical record showing the incorrect information and explain why it's incorrect. Send the letter in a way that lets you track it and confirm that someone received it, like certified mail.

Your health care provider must respond to your request within 30 days and must notify other health care providers who may have the same mistake in their records.

Review your credit reports and report medical billing errors

1. Get your credit reports. Get your free credit reports from the three credit bureaus at annualcreditreport.com or call 1-877-322-8228.

2. Review your credit reports. Look for medical billing errors, like medical debt collection notices that you don't recognize.

3. Report errors. Report any medical billing errors to all three credit bureaus by following the "What To Do Next" steps on IdentityTheft.gov.

Create a personal recovery plan

A thief that uses your personal information to see a doctor, get prescription drugs, buy medical devices, submit claims with your insurance provider, or get other medical care may also use it in other situations. Go to IdentityTheft.gov to create a personal recovery plan.

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What To Know About Medical Identity Theft

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Learn what medical identity theft is, how to protect yourself against it, and how to know if someone is using your medical information.

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Estate Identity Fraud

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Identity thief uses fraudulent deed to take Orange County man’s property

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WHAT IT IS: Digital Identity Theft Is when someone makes a fake account pretending to be you, In some ways its to make someone else look bad or to intercept messages could be from friends or from places of purchasing. this happens to anyone and its very difficult to prevent although there is many ways to make those other accounts be deleted

What to do/ how to prevent

1. have a unique username

2. when posting make sure you let people know this is the first post.

3. use security information and passwords

4. keep your content either privated or not open to public to make it more diffcult for any hackers etc.

5. avoid online purchases from sketchy sites or in general unless its a known site

6. limit social sharing

Denys, Mateo

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Get alerts when imposters set up fake accounts in your name.

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WHAT IT IS: Financial identity theft is when a person uses another person's personal information (such as their name, Social Security Number, credit card, or bank account information) to do things like open bank accounts or make unauthorized purchases.

HOW TO PREVENT IT:

1. Shred receipts

2. Credit offers

3. Loan and Credit Applications

4. Insurance forms

5. Bank Statements

6. Similar documents when you no longer need them

Evan and Ellie

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Access BJS’s data on identity theft statistics, definition, types, and related publications and products.

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WHAT IT IS: Identity cloning is a sophisticated form of theft in which an individual maliciously assumes a person's identity, typically for personal gain or to evade legal consequences. This deceptive act involves the replication of various personal details, such as a person's name, Social Security number, address, and other pertinent information, to create a false persona.

HOW TO PREVENT IT:

1. Monitor your credit: regularly review your credit reports for suspicious activity

2. Secure personal information: safeguard sensitive documents and information, both physically and digitally

3. Use strong passwords: employ strong, unique passwords for online accounts and enable two-factor authentication where possible

4. Shred documents: properly dispose of documents containing personal information by shredding them

5. Stay informed: stay informed about the latest identity theft tactics and scams to remain vigilant

Mira and John

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Identity Cloning Explained

Identity cloning is a sophisticated form of identity theft in which an individual maliciously assumes another person's identity, typically for personal gain or to evade legal consequences. This deceptive act involves the replication of various personal details, such as a person's name, Social Security number, address, and other pertinent information, to create a false persona. In this comprehensive glossary article, we will delve into the intricacies of identity cloning, including its methods, signs, and potential consequences.

Methods of Identity Cloning

1. Acquisition of Personal Information: Identity cloning often begins with the acquisition of a victim's sensitive personal information. This can include Social Security numbers, birth certificates, driver's licenses, passport details, and more. Perpetrators may obtain this data through various means, such as data breaches, phishing scams, or stealing physical documents.

2. Creating a Synthetic Identity: In some cases, identity clones fabricate entirely new identities by combining real and fake information. This synthetic identity is used to open bank accounts, secure credit cards, and perform various financial transactions under the victim's name.

3. Identity Camouflage: Once the necessary information is gathered, identity clones may attempt to blend into the victim's life by mimicking their behavior and history. This can involve using the victim's address, claiming to have their job, or even taking on family roles, such as pretending to be a spouse or parent.

4. Geographic Relocation: Identity clones may relocate to different areas or countries to avoid detection. This change of location can further complicate the process of uncovering their deceit.

Signs of Identity Cloning

Detecting identity cloning can be challenging, but there are several signs to watch for:

1. Frequent Fraud Alerts: If you receive frequent fraud alerts from your bank or financial institution for transactions you haven't initiated, it could be a sign that your identity has been cloned.

2. Unauthorized Purchases: Review your credit card and bank statements regularly. Unexplained or unauthorized purchases are red flags for identity cloning.

3. Credit Score Fluctuations: Sudden and significant fluctuations in your credit score, especially without any changes in your financial behavior, should be investigated.

4. Debt Collection Calls: If you start receiving calls from debt collectors about debts you don't recognize, it could be an indication that someone is using your identity for financial gain.

5. Unfamiliar Mail: Be wary of receiving unfamiliar mail, especially medical bills or forms from companies you've never heard of. Identity clones may use your identity for healthcare services or other purposes.

Consequences of Identity Cloning

Identity cloning can have severe consequences for both the victim and the perpetrator:

1. Financial Ruin: Victims may face financial hardship due to unauthorized transactions and accumulating debts.

2. Legal Troubles: Perpetrators of identity cloning can face criminal charges and legal penalties if caught.

3. Emotional Distress: Victims often experience emotional distress and stress when trying to rectify the situation.

4. Damage to Credit History: Identity cloning can damage your credit history, making it challenging to obtain loans or credit in the future.

5. Loss of Reputation: Victims may suffer damage to their personal and professional reputations if their cloned identity is involved in illegal activities.

Identity Cloning and Cybersecurity

Identity cloning has significant implications for cybersecurity as it represents a sophisticated form of identity theft that can lead to various security threats and challenges. Here's how identity cloning relates to cybersecurity:

1. Data Breaches: Identity cloning often begins with the theft of personal information through data breaches. Cybercriminals may target organizations to obtain a large volume of sensitive data, including Social Security numbers, financial records, and personal details, which they can then use for identity cloning.

2. Phishing Attacks: Cybercriminals may use identity cloning to conduct highly targeted phishing attacks. By impersonating a trusted individual, such as a colleague or a family member, they can trick victims into revealing even more sensitive information or clicking on malicious links or attachments.

3. Account Takeovers: Identity clones may attempt to take over a victim's online accounts, such as email, social media, or financial accounts. This can lead to unauthorized access, data theft, or manipulation of personal information.

4. Synthetic Identities: In some cases, identity clones create synthetic identities using stolen information. These synthetic identities can be used to apply for credit cards, loans, or other financial instruments, posing a significant fraud risk to financial institutions.

5. Authentication and Authorization: Identity cloning challenges traditional methods of authentication and authorization. Cybersecurity professionals must develop more robust identity verification mechanisms to distinguish between legitimate users and clones, ensuring that sensitive data and systems remain secure.

6. Incident Response: Organizations need to have effective incident response plans in place to address identity cloning incidents promptly. Detecting and mitigating identity cloning attacks requires a coordinated effort between cybersecurity teams, legal departments, and law enforcement agencies.

7. Privacy Concerns: Identity cloning infringes upon individuals' privacy rights. Protecting personal data and ensuring its confidentiality is a key aspect of cybersecurity. Organizations must implement robust privacy practices and comply with data protection regulations to prevent identity theft and cloning.

8. Education and Awareness: Cybersecurity awareness and training are essential in helping individuals recognize potential identity cloning threats. Educating employees and the public about the risks and best practices for protecting personal information can reduce the likelihood of falling victim to identity cloning schemes.

Prevention and Response

To protect yourself from identity cloning, consider taking the following precautions:

1. Monitor Your Credit: Regularly review your credit reports for suspicious activity.

2. Secure Personal Information: Safeguard sensitive documents and information, both physically and digitally.

3. Use Strong Passwords: Employ strong, unique passwords for online accounts and enable two-factor authentication where possible.

4. Shred Documents: Properly dispose of documents containing personal information by shredding them.

5. Stay Informed: Stay informed about the latest identity theft tactics and scams to remain vigilant.

In conclusion, identity cloning is a malicious act that involves the theft of personal information to create a false identity for personal gain. Being aware of the signs and taking preventative measures is essential in protecting yourself from this form of identity theft.

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Identity cloning is the deceptive practice of stealing someone's personal information and assuming their identity, often to conceal one's own identity.

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What It Is: Social security identity theft is when a person illegally uses your personal information to commit fraud. With your social security can cause many issues

How To Prevent It:

Don't list SSN on a paper in public

Never seen SSN's in electronic format

Never have a computer log-in system where a person has to use their SSN

Never Use SSNs on ID cards

Never send SSns on postcards

Never store SSns on unprotected computer system

Ryan & Bella

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In an effort to curtail identity theft, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is initiating a public information program to encourage the use of alternate identifiers in place of the Social Security Number (SSN.) Many organizations including businesses, government agencies, medical facilities and educational institutions continue to use the SSN as the primary identifier for their record keeping systems. We are seeking your support, as well as the support of the general public, in helping to ensure the integrity of individual SSNs.

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What it is: Synthetic identity theft is a special form of fraud in which a real person’s Social Security number (SSN) is stolen and then a name, date of birth, mailing address, email account, and phone number are made up and applied to that legitimate SSN to create a new identity.

Synthetic identity theft can be difficult to detect with traditional fraud monitoring systems. Its most common victims are children, the elderly, and homeless individuals. These populations may be less likely to use credit or monitor their credit history.

How To Prevent It:

Secure your SSN, use your digital security software, and know the signs of phishing scams, review your credit reports, and monitor your credit scores

Arren and Valeria

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What is it? Child identity theft is the action when someone uses a minor's personal information, such as name, date of birth, or social security number to fraudulently gain credit or other benefits like opening a bank account applying for loans, etc..

How to prevent it?

there are many ways to prevent child identity theft such as

protecting your child's information

creating strong passwords

freezing you and/or your child's credit

deleting digital information

educating your child about online safety

Questions when giving anyone your child's SSN

Why do you need it?

How will you protect it?

Can you use a different identifier?

Can you use just the last 4 digits

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZsaTxkhjFU

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How To Protect Your Child From Identity Theft

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WHAT IS IT: Tax Identity theft is when someone uses personal info normally in the form of your social security number in order to file a tax return to get a refund in your name to get your money out of that refund

HOW TO PREVENT IT:

1.Keep on paying taxes

2. Keep tax papers in a safe lock box

3. File a tax report for your taxes

4.EMIDIETLY report potential or confirmed tax fraud to the IRS and the FTC

5. Hire a tax preparer during tax season to get someone else to make sure your taxes are in order

Names: Kyle and Savannah

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25 Investigates: Identity theft tax fraud leading to long waits for refunds

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What it is: They use stolen or synthetic personal information to open new accounts, such as bank accounts, credit accounts, secure loans, or establish services in the names of other people. It's usually obtained through data branches, phishing schemes, or purchased on the dark web. Victims usually won't know until it's too late because it's hard to notice that it's happening.

How to prevent it:

make strong identification measures like including additional proof of identity and knowledge based questions.

Train employees to recognize the signs of fraud/ give overall knowledge of how to spot it.

Enhance data protection

Cross reference information with multiple sources.

Hayley and Natalie

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New account fraud - Understanding and preventing it | Fraud.com

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New account fraud - Understanding and preventing it; Discover more about fraud detection and prevention systems.

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WHAT IT IS: Business or Commercial Identity Theft occurs when someone poses as a business owner, officer, or employee to illegally commit fraud. This can include opening credit accounts, making unauthorized purchases, and taking out loans.

HOW TO PREVENT IT:

1.) As a business owner or employee, you can install anti-virus security software

2.) Use responsible, unique, strong passwords

3.) Report suspected identity theft

Gabriella / Darrion

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Business Identity Theft – What Is It and How To Protect Your Business

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Consumer Alerts - ID Theft-Telemarketing - Business Identity Theft – What Is It and How To Protect Your Business

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what it is; happens when someone uses your Social Security number or other personal identifying information for employment purposes

how to prevent it: Keep personally identifiable information confidential,

1. Don't store personal information on a work computer

2. Use caution with public Wi-Fi networks and opt for a VPN if possible

3. Be aware of phishing scams

4. Use security software

5. Lock your SSN with E-Verify

Octavio, Aliyah

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What Is Employment Identity Theft? | Equifax

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Knowing how employment identity theft works and how to protect against its damaging effects is critical. Learn how to respond to theft and protect yourself.