Private information and identity theft
What is identity theft?
Identity theft is when a criminal obtains personal information and uses it for financial gain. Your identity can be pieced together like a jigsaw from the personal information you leave behind on your computer or at a public computer terminal. With sufficient information, criminals can make credit card purchases, apply for loans or transfer money directly from your bank, while pretending to be you.
Criminals use many methods to gather personal information, including viruses, trojans and keylogging software, phishing, spam and fake websites.
How can I protect my identity?
Protect your identity by keeping a close eye on your financial statements and by responding immediately to any unexpected withdrawals or spending. Keep an eye on small amounts of money being unexpectedly withdrawn. Criminals often do a test-run with a small amount to check whether the account holder is keeping an eye on transactions. If suspicious withdrawals are not questioned, they assume you are an easy target and may withdraw your money quickly.
When submitting information to websites, make sure the website is secure. More secure website addresses start with ‘https’, rather than the less secure ‘http’. Alternatively, a padlock image should appear in the browser. Make it a habit to check for this padlock symbol.
Use long and random passwords, which should be eight or more characters in length. Change them regularly and keep them in a secure place.
Install anti-virus, anti-spam, pop-up stopper software and a personal firewall.
When you fill in forms, only fill in the information that’s mandatory for the site. Consider whether it’s necessary to provide your personal information in order to use the site or service.
Do not respond to calls, letters or emails from any financial institution asking for passwords or other details. If you receive a call, hang up and call the business back to check if it is a genuine enquiry.
Are children subject to identity theft?
Children can become victims of identity theft by trusting friends with account details and passwords, not installing security software, not being careful with passwords or not logging out of applications when using public computers. They may also use memory sticks, phones or personal digital assistants that are not password protected.
Although not as susceptible to fraud because of their infrequent online financial transactions, children’s details can be used by others to impersonate them, in a complex form of cyberbullying.
Identity theft may also occur when an identity is assumed by another person using a birth certificate, passport or driver’s licence to open bank accounts, take out loans and conduct other business illegally in another person’s name. Young people are especially vulnerable to this form of identity theft.
Parents can help their children by talking with them about potential dangers and making sure they feel safe discussing the issue. Open discussion is also helpful if children suspect that their identity has been stolen.