Most identity theft begins in the offline world

According to research by Javelin Strategy & Research:

“While keylogging software, phishing e-mails that impersonate official bank messages and hackers who break into customer databases may dominate headlines, more than 90% of identity fraud starts off conventionally, with stolen bank statements, misplaced passwords or other similar means.”

“Shredding financial documents certainly protects you from dumpster divers. Yet only 1 percent of all cases of ID theft employ that technique.”

“In contrast, you’re 15 times as likely to have your identity swiped if your company loses control of its financial records – and 30 times more likely if you lose your wallet. And who are ID thieves? They might be your friends, coworkers, or neighbors. They’re not going through your trash; they’re rifling through your filing cabinet while you’re in the kitchen fixing drinks, or they’re checking out the 401(k) forms you submit at the office. Still, despite the hysteria, only 29 in 1,000 people will ever get their identity stolen.”

Related links:
Protect your privacy at home
Tips to keep your search history private
Protect your personal info. Tips for data safety.