Miscellaneous Forms of Identity Theft
The financial consequences of identity theft are well known. Credit card fraud, bad credit, bounced checks and unpaid debts run rampant due to people having their identity stolen. However, finance is not the only thing that can be harmed. Following is a list of the various types of identity theft.
Other Kinds of Identity Theft
Character identity theft is the first of the types of identity theft. When someones character is stolen, he or she is at risk of being charged with crimes never committed. This can lead to arrests and time spent in prison. Character identity theft usually occurs when a persons drivers license is stolen and the number used. In the eyes of the law, drivers license number is the second most important piece of identifying information apart from Social Security number. Character identity theft can also lead to inability to find work, due to negative results on background checks.
Social Security number theft is one of the most serious forms of identity theft. With a stolen Social Security number someone can access just about any other piece of private information. Almost all identity theft happens because the person’s Social Security number has been jeopardized. Tax information as well as bank statements and employment records all use it for identification.
Medical benefits are at risk as well. Social Security number is also used as Medicare ID. Without Medicare or other health insurance, people usually will be unable to pay for medicines or services given by a hospital or clinic. False information can be placed in health records, thus causing difficulty in getting health insurance. The less healthy a person is, the more difficult it is to find low rates on insurance.
Traffic violations are another problem. Stealing a driver’s license is one of the most devious types of identity theft. With a license, the thief can obtain auto insurance using the number and harm the person’s credit rating by not making the payments. Any traffic violations that are obtained on the license number are recorded and your insurance rates will rise.
Credit theft is probably the most familiar type of ID theft. This happens when someone acquires bank account information such as PIN numbers or credit cards. With just this little piece of information, they can apply for a loan in your name, do online transactions or even empty out your bank account. Very often the victim isn’t even aware this has happened until the bill collectors call looking for the money owed for items bought.
Being aware of these types of ID theft will help keep you safe. You need to realize that finance is just one. Character and health and transportation can also be at risk.
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