Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information (such as your account usernames and passwords) to impersonate you, usually for financial gain. According to Gallup, identity theft is now more widespread in the US than burglary, mugging, car theft and physical assault combined.
Once someone steals your identity they might be able to withdraw your money, use your identity to take out mortgages and loans, or even commit fraud in your name by signing up for services, government benefits and credit cards using your personal information.
The book,
Complete Guide to Internet Privacy, Anonymity & Security
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describes the ways that identity thieves go about their business - including phishing, spear phishing, spoofing and keylogging - and what to look out for in order to protect yourself.
The book also discusses the resources you can use and how you can proactively monitor your information to ensure that it has not fallen into the hands of identity thieves. In addition, the book outlines what you can do in the event that you become a victim of identity theft.
This chapter of the book concludes with a handy checklist you can use to protect yourself from identity theft.
