Some Common Ways ID Theft Happen:
Skilled identity thieves use a variety of methods to steal your personal information, including:
•Dumpster Diving: They rummage through trash looking for bills or other paper with your personal information on it.
•Skimming: They steal credit/debit card numbers by using a special storage device when processing your card.
•Phishing: The pretend to be financial institutions or companies and send spam or pop-up messages to get you to reveal your personal information.
•Changing Your Address: They divert your billing statements to another location by completing a "change of address" form.
•Changing Your Address: Old Fashioned" Stealing: They steal wallets and purses; mail, including bank and credit card statements; pre-approved credit offers; and new checks or tax information. They steal personal records from their employers, or bribe employees who have access.