Identity Theft

What is identity theft?

Identity theft and identity fraud are terms used to describe the impersonation of another person, typically for the purpose of financial gain. Personal information is obtained or stolen from the victim and used to impersonate that person. Such information can include a victim's Social Insurance Number, credit card number, bank account, and other records, as well as personal data such as a person's name, address, telephone number, and mother's maiden name.

Once the criminal has this data, they are able to make unauthorized withdrawals from bank accounts, obtain credit in the other person's name, and may even take over the person's identity altogether. Because the offence may occur in other provinces, states, or countries, it can be very difficult to track and catch these criminals.

Even a small amount of personal data can be enough. By obtaining your name, address, birth date, and a few other facts, a criminal can forge identification and then apply for further legitimate-looking documents in your name — expanding the identification they hold until they can apply for loans, credit cards, and other accounts. If statements and cards are sent to an address that isn't yours, you may be driven into debt without ever knowing anything is wrong.

How does identity theft occur?

While you might expect a criminal to break into your house or steal your wallet, information is often obtained through seemingly innocuous sources:

• Public information — phone books, newspaper announcements, and online listings can reveal your name, address, age, birth date, anniversary, maiden name, or relatives' names.
• Online forms and chat — programs and websites that ask for your name, age, occupation, mother's maiden name, SIN, or credit card details hand criminals exactly what they need.
• “Dumpster diving” — searching through your garbage for bank and credit card statements, copies of cheques, or other discarded records.
• Pre-approved credit applications — if discarded but not shredded, a criminal can apply for credit in your name, then intercept the card from your mailbox or have it redirected.

Protect yourself

• Obtain a credit report on yourself at least once a year. Many victims don't realize their identity has been stolen until a debt appears on their credit file or legal action is taken.
• Avoid publishing personal data. Keep newspaper announcements brief, and ask that your address not be included with your phone listing.
• Invest in a shredder. Shred pre-approved credit offers, membership offers, statements, and receipts before discarding them.
• Keep credit card receipts and compare them to your monthly statement to spot unauthorized purchases.
• Report lost or stolen ID, cheques, bank cards, and credit cards immediately so they can be cancelled or voided.
• Don't give personal or financial information to telemarketers unless you initiated the call and are sure the company is reputable.
• Make sure you know who you're dealing with. Anyone can claim to be from the government, a bank, or a company. If they can't prove it or give you a number to call back, hang up. The same caution applies to mail and email.
• Don't share personal details over the internet beyond the minimum needed, and only give credit card numbers to secure, reputable sites.
• Be careful of spam and unsolicited contact promising prizes or free trips in exchange for “verification” of your personal or credit card information.
• When travelling, have your mail held at the post office or collected by someone you trust.