How do thieves steal identities?
There are many ways thieves steal identities, including: They steal wallets, purses, and briefcases to gain access to your credit cards, driver’s license, passport, and other personal documents. They look for personal data by going through your trash. This is also known as “dumpster diving.” They steal your mail, including your bank statements, pre-approved credit card offers, new checks, and tax information. They pose as legitimate companies or government agencies in order to get your personal information. They use personal information that you shared on the Internet. Through an e-mail attachment that you open or download, they could release a virus on your computer. The virus acts as a spyware program that records what you type and the Web sites you visit and allows the thief to acquire your personal information. They are usually someone you know, such as a roommate, relative or friend because you may share your information with them without knowing they will use it for other purpose
