Identity Theft FAQ

What is Identity Theft?

Identity theft occurs when someone gains unauthorized access to sensitive personal information, such as your Social Security number, driver’s license, or date of birth. Once this information is obtained, identity thieves can commit crimes, open lines of credit, or go on shopping sprees – all in your name. Some identity thieves get access to personal information by looting stolen wallets. Others get the information by stealing mail or hacking into databases. Though the methods vary, the result of identity theft is always the same: unfair hardship for the victim.

Identity thieves operate for all sorts of reasons. Most identity thefts involve credit card fraud. That is, the thieves either take over the victim’s current credit card accounts or use the victim’s identity to get approval for new credit cards. Thieves also commonly use stolen information to set up utilities and cell phone accounts. Check and bank account fraud are also common. By gaining access to someone’s personal information, identity thieves can use that person’s bank account to transfer money or write checks in the victim’s name. These unauthorized activities are illegal and potentially damaging to the victim’s finances, credit and reputation.

Fortunately in response to the growing problem, an entire industry was born to fight identity theft. The identity theft protection industry has grown to an estimated 2 million subscribers. For as little as pennies a day, these protection services can give you piece of mind and security in the knowledge your identity is safe. 

Read our reviews or glance at our comparison chart as we give you an in-depth look at all the major protection services.