Page 21 - Cyber Warnings

Note – The Percentages Figures have been computed on the basis of total number of
Consumer Sentinel Network complaints by calendar year. It does not include ‘Do Not Call’
registry complaints.

Source: Federal Trade Commission, Consumer Sentinel Network.

Now know the types of identity theft committed online!

Online Identity Theft: Types

The following are some of the common types of online identity theft:

• Phishing Emails – Here, the fraudster tricks you into handing over your personal
information through fake emails.

• Hacking into Your Device – Here, the scammers gain unauthorized access to your
personally identifiable information by exploiting security loopholes on your
computer, laptops, mobile device such as tablets, smartphones, or network, and
then attacks your device.

• Remote Access Scams – Here, the cybercriminals trick you into providing remote
access to your computer online and paying for a service that you do not need.

• Installation of Malicious Codes – Here, malicious codes such as malware, virus,
ransomware, etc. are installed on your computer that allows unauthorized access
to your files having privately identifiable information.

Also, the cyber criminals keep a watch on every activity you perform, and in this
way, make fraudulent acquisition of your personal information.

• Fake Online Profiles – In this, the fraudster creates fake profiles on social media,
dating, or matrimonial sites and requests you to connect.

• On doing so, they gain access to your personal identity and then misuse it for their
selfish benefits.

• Document Theft – Here, the scammer gets access to your private information
through open mailboxes or discarded personal documents such as insurance
renewals, utility bills, health cards, etc.

• Return of Leased IT Assets – When you or your organization return the leased IT
assets such as hard drives without making sure that data on the devices have

21 Cyber Warnings E-Magazine – July 2017 Edition
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