Identity Theft is Real: Here’s How You Can Prevent it

How can someone steal your identity? Is it even possible? The answer, unfortunately, is “yes”.

Identity theft is real and robbing the people of their life’s savings every day.

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What is identity theft?

Identity theft is exactly what it sounds like. When someone gets their hands on your ID documents such as bank statements, voter ID, driver’s license, etc. and uses them to access and withdraw money from your bank accounts, etc., then it’s called an identity theft.

Some of the most common forms of identity theft include phishing scams, fraudulent income tax returns, etc.

How to prevent identity theft?

Unless you are careful with your personal and financial information you will always be at a risk of falling victim to an identity theft.

The following are some of the ways you can prevent identity theft:

1. Securing your documents

Be sure to take care of your documents well. If you have to discard the photocopies of important documents then shred them first.

2. Online Presence

Identity thefts are common on the Internet. So, be extra careful when you are on social media or checking your email inbox. Never share your bank account details, or personal details through emails or unrecognized websites, unless you are absolutely sure.

3. Stay Alert

Identity thieves use all kinds of wicked ways to trick you. For instance, in a new scam that’s becoming popular the felon secures your ID and then contacts your mobile phone operator to get your phone number deactivated only to get it up and running through another SIM. They then transfer your bank account balance to theirs. Since they already your phone number activated in a different SIM, they are able to receive the OTP required for transfer.

So, stay alerted at all times and if you sense something fishy, don’t shy from contacting the relevant authorities. Your financial security is in your own hands.