Where can your information can be stolen?

There are multiple ways thieves can acquire your information. Here is a list of some ways to steal personal information:

• Wallet/purse loss or theft. Thief steals wallet and pocketbook.
• Mail and phones. Thief steals account numbers and personal information.
• Bills - Bills contain personal information, account numbers. May use information to start a new account.
• Calling card -if thief has calling card and ID number, he/she can make long distance calls anywhere.
• Passwords - thief watched you (“shoulder surfing”) or comes across your list
• Work Records -thief may access work records, SS#, bank records.
• Pre-approved credit cards -activate accounts from pre-approved cards.
• Bank Account Information- with bank account routing number, thief can make checks, withdraw money, or access savings.
• ATM, Credit, Debit Cards -some locations ask for card and PIN number. Credit and Debit cards are easy to use because most businesses don’t ask for additional ID. Easy to use over internet and phone.
• Dumpster diving
• Insider access
• Internet shopping
• Credit report. Thief fraudulently orders a credit report.