Inside Jobs of Identity Theft
Identity theft has
quickly become one of the most detrimental crimes in existence. As technology evolves, so does the methods
implemented by thieves. The stealing of
personal and financial information is costing billions of dollars to millions
of consumers. Those who fall prey to
this menacing act often have a difficult time climbing out of debt and
reclaiming their lives.
The most troubling fact
about identity theft is that you may be a victim and not even realize it until
considerable damage has been inflicted.
It is more disturbing to know that newborn babies, senior citizens, and
even the deceased are often targeted for the crime. These individuals make perfect candidates because
the fraudulent use of their personal information may go undetected for longer
periods of time, if at all.
The Business of
Identity Theft
Far too often, personal
records are thieved as the result of an inside job. This occurs when employees who have access to
sensitive data steal consumer information in order to turn profits. The thought is rather tempting, as the stolen
data can get them anywhere from $10 to $100 per credit report or record. The criminals who purchase these records are
able to turn larger profits. They use
this personal information to open credit and bank accounts, obtain home loans
or purchase a large amount of goods with the intent of fencing the merchandise
for cash.
Inside
jobs are becoming more difficult to detect and prevent due to outsourcing. Several foreign call centers place personal
information at the risk of being used with fraudulent intent. The F.B.I recently reported that a growing
number of the identity theft scams that are abundant in the United States
actually originate from overseas.
Inside
Jobs in the Medical Field
Identity
theft has become a major problem in the medical practice. While this is often the case when a patient
attempts to use another identity to receive medical treatment or prescriptions,
it also occurs when doctors or staff members sell a patient's information to
members of the black market. The
information is then used to create fraudulent records or to obtain items and
drugs to sell on the street. Needless to
say, this is a very profitable crime for all parties with the exception of the
legitimate patient.
Preventing
Inside Jobs
When
it comes to stopping identity theft caused by inside jobs, management must play
a huge role in the prevention process.
Staff members at a doctor's office or hospital can do this by always
asking patients to provide valid photo identification. Once the word spreads that the practice is
enforcing strict verification protocol, identity thieves will be more reluctant
to attempt the crime. Management in
other fields may want to implement systems in which one administrator has
access to sensitive data. Active cameras
should also be installed where ever important information is being
handled.
Identity
theft is difficult to prevent in any form.
This crime is even harder to stop when it originates from within a
company. The best strategy against
inside jobs is to accept the possibility and prepare for it.
