What is Identity Theft?

When someone uses your personal information without permission to open an account or access your financial records — that’s identity theft, and it’s a serious crime.

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Every

seconds

an identity is stolen in the U.S.

It takes an average of

100- hours**

to resolve identity theft on your own

How identity theft happens

Data sharing & tracking

While the data you share with companies may make life more convenient, it can also be tracked, breached, or sold to third parties.

Data breaches

You may trust companies to store your personal information, but sometimes they experience a hack through weak or outdated security protocols.

Credit card skimming

Hard-to-spot ATM skimming devices can extract credit card numbers and PINs, which are then sold on the dark web.

Phishing attacks

Phishing emails may bait you into clicking a link or opening an attachment, and giving away sensitive information.

Social media scams

Social media accounts connect and inspire — but sharing too much can leave you exposed to data theft or account takeover fraud.

Using public WiFi

Coffee shops are great places to work, but they also present opportunities for hackers to access unsecured devices on the same network.

How identity thieves can use your information

Collect your tax refund

If someone files your taxes before you do, they’ll get a return in your name — possibly creating issues for years.

Get medical treatment

If your healthcare information is stolen, someone can receive costly treatments in your name.

Open accounts in your name

Thieves use your info to get credit cards, cell phone accounts, and personal loans in your name.

Use your name when arrested

An imposter can claim to be you when cited for traffic or misdemeanor violations, then fail to show up in court.

Discover a better way to help protect your data, privacy, and identity

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Allstate Identity Protection is offered and serviced by InfoArmor, Inc., a subsidiary of The Allstate Corporation. Some features are only available on select plans, and require additional activation after enrollment. Terms and conditions apply.

†Identity theft insurance covering expense and stolen funds reimbursement is underwritten by American Bankers Insurance Company of Florida, an Assurant company. The description herein is a summary and intended for informational purposes only and does not include all terms, conditions and exclusions of the policies described. Please refer to the actual policies for terms, conditions, and exclusions of coverage. Coverage may not be available in all jurisdictions.

**“How To Prevent Identity Theft.” The Economist, 14 Sept. 2017.

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Get the facts families need at our Digital Safety Center^SM for Families >