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• obtain your credit reports by abusing their employer’s authorized access to them, or by posing as a landlord, employer, or some- one else who may have a legal right to access your report;
• steal your credit or debit card numbers by capturing the information in a data storage device in a practice known as “skimming.” They may swipe your card for an actual purchase, or attach the device to an ATM machine where you may enter or swipe your card.
In addition, identity thieves could:
• steal your wallet or purse;
• complete a “change of address form” to divert your mail to another location;
• steal personal information they find in your home; and
• steal personal information from you through e-mail or phone by posing as a legitimate company and claiming that you have a problem with your account. This practice is known as “phishing” online, or “pretexting” by phone.
More about Pretexting
Pretexting is the practice of getting your personal information under false pretenses and is against the law. Pretexters sell your information to people who may use it to get credit in your name or steal your assets.
According to the FTC, pretexters use a variety of tactics to get your personal information. For example, pretexters may call, claiming they’re from a survey firm, and ask you a few questions. When pretex- ters have obtained the information they want, they use it to call your financial institution and pretend to be you or someone with authorized access to your account. A pretexter might claim that he’s forgotten his checkbook and needs information about his account. He may be able to obtain personal information about you such as your Social Security number, bank and credit card account numbers, information in your
Stay Alert for Identity Theft