Identity Theft

Identity Theft

“Identity theft occurs when someone uses…personally identifying information, like…name, Social Security number, or credit card number, without…permission, to commit fraud or other crimes” (Federal, 2007, para 1). Identity theft is the “nation’s fastest growing crime according to FBI statistics and identity theft/fraud is the fastest-growing category of Federal Trade Commission (FTC) complaints” (University of Oklahoma, 2004), para 1). Approximately 9 million Americans have either been a victim or have known a victim of identity theft (Federal, 2007, para 2). This paper will examine results from three identity theft and email phishing quizzes required for this class, what people should know about identity theft, and how identity theft commonly occurs.

Test results

The first quiz completed was the “Identity Theft IQ Test”. I scored what I would consider a remarkable score of 40. The questions I failed were those about pre-approved credit offers, not having a secured mailbox, and carrying my veteran’s identification and social security cards with me at all times. I would have scored much worse on these questions if I did not live in my present location. Living on a farm, my husband and I save a great deal of money by burning our own trash. Had this not been a common practice, my test score would have been higher due to not shredding the offers and banking statements upon receipt. After taking this quiz, I must find another way to carry my veteran’s ID and social security cards, as I am required to present these at all appointments with the Veteran’s Administration (VA) or at those authorized to provide medical care to me by the VA. This quiz score lists me in a lesser category of potential identity theft (Privacy Identity, 2007, para 1).

The second quiz concerned business practices. I quit scoring points for this quiz after the first 10 questions. Because I am now a new business owner, I geared my responses at my last paying position at a mental health clinic. I was astonished at the business practices that were common place. The last year I was employed there a new human resource manager who was responsible for putting new business practices in place. These practices included the use of social security numbers, locked cabinets not being used, computers not having memory wiped, breeches of security, and business practices to name a just a few (Privacy Are the Businesses, 2007, para 1). Since taking this quiz, I have forwarded the link to various members within my former organization for the employees and human resources manager to review. I was contacted by the organization’s attorney to “cease and desist” all attempts to undermine the organization’s integrity (Anonymous per request, personal conversation, April 9, 2007).

The last test taken was the “SonicWALL Phishing IQ Test” (2007). I scored six of 10 questions correct. Those questions missed were on SBC, eBay, and both Paypal. While many of the results were mixed, I now know to watch the URL link more closely. I will also more closely watch the salutation line on all emails being received from my known companies (SonicWALL results, 2007, para 1). I find that I have fairly good business practices when opening emails, as I will immediately delete all emails from unknown sources.

What people should know about identity theft

Identity theft is a serious crime. Often people are unaware of the threat until a major purchase is denied and a credit report is ordered by the victim (Federal, 2007, para. 3). This personal information obtained by illegal means can be used to max out credit cards, obtaining new credit cards, buying cars, open new checking accounts, and providing the police with a false name during an address (University of Oklahoma, 2004, para 23 through 31). The best way to find out if a person’s identity was stolen is through bank statements and credit reports. A person should routinely check his or her credit report approximately every