Top identity theft scams to avoid in 2025

Identity theft continues to be a persistent and evolving threat, with scammers finding increasingly sophisticated ways to steal personal information. Here’s a guide to the most common types of identity theft scams in 2024 and how you can stay one step ahead.

1. Social security number theft

Your Social Security Number (SSN) is a golden key for identity thieves. They can open credit accounts, apply for government benefits, or even get a job using your SSN. Scammers often obtain these numbers via data breaches or by buying them on the dark web. To protect yourself, limit sharing your SSN unless absolutely necessary, monitor your credit report regularly, and consider placing a security freeze if you suspect your SSN is compromised.

2. Phishing attacks

Phishing scams come in emails, texts, and phone calls designed to trick you into revealing sensitive information, such as your login credentials or bank details. These scams often impersonate legitimate entities like your bank or popular online retailers. Avoid clicking on suspicious links and always verify the sender's identity. A good rule of thumb: if you didn’t initiate the contact, don’t provide personal information.

3. Financial account fraud

Hackers gain access to your financial information, like bank and credit card details, and then use it to make unauthorized purchases. Signs of financial account fraud include unfamiliar charges, new lines of credit, or collection calls for debts you don’t recognise. Monitor your financial accounts and credit card statements regularly to catch this type of fraud early.

4. Government benefits fraud

Impersonating someone to claim benefits like unemployment or tax refunds has become a popular scam. If you’re denied government benefits or get notifications about benefits you didn’t apply for, this could indicate fraud. To protect yourself, apply for benefits as soon as possible, as criminals often target unclaimed benefits. Filing taxes early can also prevent thieves from submitting false returns in your name.

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5. Medical identity theft

In this scam, thieves use your health insurance details to receive medical care under your name. Warning signs include unexplained medical bills or unfamiliar treatments on your health insurance statements. Always review medical bills and insurance statements for unfamiliar services, and contact your insurer immediately if you spot any irregularities.

6. Online account takeovers

Scammers target online accounts, including social media, to gain access to your personal information. Often, they will lock you out of your accounts or use your identity to scam friends and followers. Protect your accounts by using strong, unique passwords and enabling multi-factor authentication. Be wary of requests from friends on social media for personal information, especially if the account seems “off”.

7. Mail and package theft

While it may seem low-tech, mail theft is still a significant method for identity theft. Thieves often target mail that contains sensitive information, such as bank statements or credit card offers. To reduce your risk, check your mail daily and avoid leaving it in your mailbox for extended periods. Shred sensitive documents before discarding them, even junk mail that contains personal information.

8. Tax identity theft

Tax identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information to file a tax return and claim your refund. Filing early can prevent this, as thieves cannot file a return in your name if you’ve already done so. If you’re eligible, the IRS Identity Protection PIN is an added layer of security that helps prevent unauthorized tax filings.

9. Synthetic identity theft

This newer scam involves combining pieces of personal information from multiple sources to create a “synthetic” identity. This false identity can be used to open accounts that eventually trace back to you. A comprehensive identity protection plan, which includes credit monitoring, can help you detect and prevent synthetic identity theft before it escalates.

Protecting yourself

Taking proactive measures can make all the difference. Use strong, unique passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and monitor your credit report regularly. For enhanced online security, using a virtual private network (VPN) like Hide Expert VPN can help shield your browsing activity on public Wi-Fi networks, keeping your data out of reach from potential hackers.

Staying informed about these scams and vigilant about your online and offline security practices can help you protect yourself against identity theft, keeping your personal information secure.