It happens closer to home than you think. Even right here in Texas. Chances are you or someone you know has had their identity stolen. It can be a scary thing. Identity theft is when someone steals your personal information to commit fraud, typically for financial gain. In short, identity thieves are like digital pickpockets.

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HuffPost published an article a while back featuring the sorts of victims identity thieves target. In a world that's becoming more and more digital, identity theft is on the rise. It's important for Texans to stay one step ahead of the crooks. Below are three primary areas that identity thieves have targeted in 2023.

LOOK: SNEAKY IDENTITY THIEVES TARGET TEXAS IN THESE 3 AREAS THE MOST

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Personal Information

This includes your full name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number. With this knowledge, thieves can open bank accounts, apply for credit cards, or attain a driver's license in your name. Make sure to keep this information private and be extremely cautious with whom you share it.


 

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Online Accounts

This can actually be anything from your email account to your social media profiles. Thieves use this information to impersonate you online. They scam your friends and family. These bad guys can also use your online accounts to gather personal information. Use strong and unique passwords for all your online accounts.


 

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Financial Information

This includes your credit card and bank account numbers. Thieves can use this information to make purchases and withdraw money from your accounts. Keep your financial information safe by always checking your bank and credit card statements for any strange activity. If you see something that doesn't look right, report it to your bank or credit card company in a hurry.

Identity thieves are always on the lookout for personal information, online accounts, and financial information. It's absolutely vital to take steps to protect yourself, such as keeping your personal information private, using strong passwords, and checking your financial statements regularly. One thing is for sure. It's always better to be safe than sorry when protecting your identity.

12 Signs That You Could Be a Victim of Identity Theft

Identity theft can happen so quickly, and potentially take so long to resolve. Keep an eye out for these 12 warning signs and maybe you can limit the damage done to your credit and your life.

Gallery Credit: Cindy Campbell

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