ID Theft in the World of Internet Technology

Identity theft has been more prevalent in recent years primarily because transactions done over electronic platforms have been growing exponentially. Several reasons can be pointed out as to why identity theft can be done with relative ease with electronically-stored information.

First, the volatile nature of electronic information makes it virtually impossible to identify someone who has already made copies of a piece of information that has been stored in an electronic network. Modern security software makers have tried to address this but experienced identity thieves can still develop and/or employ software that can delete any traces of unauthorized access to such information.

Secondly, physical evidence of stealing identity information is minimal, thanks to wide area networks such as the Internet itself. Fraudsters who are able to penetrate into the premises of an organization can just as easily log on to a computer and email the information he needs to an untraceable email address that he can access outside, thus rendering standard security procedures such as frisking and document inspection practically useless.

Thirdly, electronic information released through transactions done over the Internet is very prone to identity theft. Keystroke loggers, bogus sites and phishing emails are means that are commonly employed by identity thieves.

Lastly, some thieves do not use software or internet technology at all. Thieves can employ pretexting scams in which they assume false identities to call or email unsuspecting victims and persuade them to reveal private information that can then be used to access personal account information.