Student Internet Activity & Identity Theft
According to the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Inspector General, identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in the U.S. Identity theft happens when someone uses your personal information without your knowledge to commit fraudulent or criminal acts. Students are particularly vulnerable to identity theft because their personal information is widely available online.
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Identity thieves use your personal information such as your name, address and phone number, and your bank account, credit card or social security numbers to get credit or employment, or to purchase services or merchandise in your name. Students who use their computer for online banking or making online purchases risk their identity.
Types
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Identity theft is either casual or professional. A roommate who uses your account or password commits casual identity theft. On the other hand, professional identity theft involves organized criminals. Professional identity thieves target students because their personal information is frequently available and their credit records are often virtually blank.
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Effects
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Students victimized by identity theft often lose their credit rating and reputation. You can be refused loans, housing or employment, which jeopardizes your future. It could take you months, or even years, to repair the damaged caused by identity theft.
Prevention
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The College Student's Guide to Identity Theft suggest several tips for preventing identity theft when online. For example, never provide your full name in an online profile and be cautious when sharing where you live. If you make online purchases, be careful to only buy from reputable businesses, and protect your account information and passwords. Also, be sure you always log out of a website before closing it.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit a copy key: symbolic computer security and theft of digital data image by Stephen Gibson from Fotolia.com
