Identity Theft
Success Criteria for Digital Citizenship Badge
Define Identity Theft
Explain how Identity Theft could happen?
Outline what could happen if your Information is stolen?
Give two signs that Identity Theft might have occurred.
Describe two ways to protect against Identity Theft
List instructions on how to Report Identity Theft.
Presentation & Activities for Identity Theft
Identity Theft Defined
Definition
“Identity theft occurs when your personal details such as your PPS number, date of birth, driving license and banking details are compromised or stolen allowing fraudsters to pose as you.
This allow fraudsters to use your information to obtain credit or to purchase goods or services in your name, take over your bank account or to make applications in your name for new bank accounts, cards or loans.”
How does identity theft happen?
How Identity Theft Happens
Phishing - sending unsolicited emails that trick people into sharing personal information or contain malware that steals information from your device.
Wifi Hacking - information is stolen from your device through the wifi network.
Dumpster Diving - going through your rubbish/recycling and taking your credit card statements, bank statements, government letters that show your personal details and address.
Phone Scams - phone calls where the caller poses as an official from government/bank etc to get you to give them your private details.
Data Breaches - hackers steal personal information held by organisations.
Eg. government, retail stores, medical facilities.
Skimming - a device fitted to an ATM copies the details of your card when you use the machine.
Malware - software that scans your device and steals personal information.
What could they do with my information?
What could happen my information when it's been stolen:
Open new credit cards or other lines of credit using your personal information.
Make unauthorized purchases using your credit & debit cards.
Pass an employment background check or rent an apartment, using your identity and favourable financial credit rating.
Signs of Identity Theft
What signs you should be vigilant for:
You get letters from solicitors or debt collectors for debts that are not yours.
You get bills or invoices for goods or services you didn’t order.
You are refused a financial service like a loan or credit card even though you have a good credit history.
You are billed for a mobile phone contract (or other service) set up in your name without your knowledge.
Protecting Yourself from Identity Theft - from fraudsmart.ie
How To Report Identity Theft
Reporting Identity Theft
If you feel that your bank cards are being used without your authorisation, immediately contact your bank and ask them to freeze them & then contact your local Garda station.
If your passport, driving license, cards or other personal documents have been lost or stolen, immediately contact the organisation that issued them & then contact your local Garda station.
Video about Identity Theft
Let’s Discuss:
Was there anything new in the Video that
you learned or found interesting?
Wordwall Quiz
Useful Links