Identity thieves and perpetrators of fraud find many ways to access your personal information. They may:

• Go through your trash or recycling bin at home, work, or the public landfill
• Misrepresent themselves as working for a legitimate organization (medical office, pharmacy, government agency, charity) to try to trick you into divulging bank account numbers or other personal information
• Send you emails that look like they are from your bank or another institution you trust asking for personal data

After a perpetrator has gained access to your personal data, such as your social security number, health insurance information, or bank account numbers, they can:

• Drain your bank accounts or investment accounts
• Run up charges using your credit cards
• Apply for loans and credit cards in your name
• Open accounts for utilities, new charge cards, and other items in your name
• Get medical treatment or prescriptions using your health insurance
• Sometimes, give your name to the police in the event of an arrest