Lesson Outcomes

Learners will be able to:

  • Define identity theft

  • Explain different types of identity theft

  • Identify ways to prevent identity theft

Overview

Identity theft occurs when someone steals another person’s personal information and uses it without permission. This information may include:

  • ID numbers

  • Bank details

  • Credit card information

  • Personal contact details

Cybercriminals use this information to commit fraud or other crimes.

Types of Identity Theft

Financial Identity Theft

This occurs when criminals use stolen personal information to access bank accounts or credit cards.

Examples include:

  • Unauthorized purchases

  • Opening credit accounts

  • Transferring money from bank accounts

Prevention methods include monitoring bank accounts and reporting suspicious activity.

Medical Identity Theft

This occurs when criminals use someone else’s identity to obtain medical services, prescriptions, or insurance benefits.

This can result in incorrect medical records and financial losses.

Preventing Identity Theft

Ways to reduce the risk include:

  • Monitoring financial statements regularly

  • Protecting personal documents

  • Using strong passwords

  • Avoiding suspicious emails or websites

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