Technique

Identity Theft

Also known as: ID Theft, Personal Identity Fraud, Identity Fraud, PII Theft

EXPLOITATIONMONETIZATION

Using someone's stolen personal information (SSN, DOB, name, address) to impersonate them for financial gain, benefits fraud, or evading accountability.

Common attack flows

How it fits in a scam

This technique shows up duringEXPLOITATION

Before

After

This is often where the scam ends.

Defense

How to defend against this

How to spot it

  • Unexpected bills or collection notices for accounts you didn't open
  • Credit report shows unfamiliar accounts or inquiries or addresses
  • IRS rejects your tax return as already filed
  • Denied credit unexpectedly despite good history
  • Medical bills for treatments you didn't receive
  • Calls from debt collectors about unknown debts

Tools you can use

Steps you can take

Further reading