The term 'identity theft' might seem like a new concept, but it's been around for decades. In fact, the first reported case of identity theft dates back to 1897! However, with the rise of technology and social media, the frequency and severity of these crimes have increased exponentially.
In simple terms, identity theft is when someone steals your personal information, such as name, address, credit card numbers, or even your Social Security number, without your consent. This stolen data can be used to commit fraud, steal money, or even assume your identity.
One of the most common ways identity theft occurs is through phishing scams. Scammers will send you emails or messages that appear to be from legitimate sources, such as your bank or credit card company, asking for sensitive information.
Another way is through data breaches. When a company's database is compromised, hackers can gain access to thousands of people's personal information at once.
The first step in protecting yourself from identity theft is to be aware of your digital footprint. Keep track of your online activities and monitor your credit reports regularly.
You should also enable two-factor authentication whenever possible, as this adds an extra layer of security to your accounts.