It is challenging to make a comprehensive list of identity scams simply because the bad guys are always one step ahead of the game. They are always searching for ways to get information, and authorities and victims are always a step or twelve behind. Staying aware of pitfalls and protecting yourself against fraud you simply can’t prevent are the most effective means of sniffing out scams.

Phishing Scams

Thieves often go phishing for information. This involves sending an email that appears to be from a bank or credit card company. When you read the email and follow the instructions to log in, your information is recorded and then used or sold to others. There are general phishing scams where many people are targeted without specifics, or spear phishing where you are personally targeted through pieces of information the thieves gathered previously.

Malware Scams

Downloading programs or opening attachments on your computer gives malware such as spyware or viruses. These programs can find information or even allow others to browse through your files in search of information they can use to log into your accounts or gain access to your accounts.

Phone Call Scams

In a phone call scam, you are called by a “representative” of a charity or bank. The charity offers you a chance to make a donation to save the children and you are willing. You can then give your credit card number right over the phone! What a convenient way for a thief to record your information for his own purposes. It works with the scammer “representing” your bank as well asking for information over the phone to settle a problem with your account.

Mail Scams

There are two very traditional means of stealing your mail. One, the thief simply reaches in your unsecured mailbox and takes it. When you consider the number of statements, checks and other items that are delivered through the mail, this is a lucrative prospect for the thief. Another means of finding information is to go through your trash looking for credit card statements, convenience checks and other items of interest. The enterprising thief can pull together information from multiple sources to put your complete profile together.

Social Networking Scams

With the rise of social networking sites such as MySpace or Facebook, scammers have enjoyed increasing access to “donate now” features. The scammer gains access to your account and then begins asking your friends for money for a special project or to buy special items.

Work Information Scams

Your workplace has your information, and there isn’t much you can do when the company computers are hacked and the information is stolen. Likewise, when a laptop is lost or there is another form of information leak. Other employees in the company can steal information as well from files on their computers – especially in the human resources department.

Consumer Scams

There are endless ways to scam a consumer. Some of the most recent to make news are switching credit cards when you take one for payment. Handing back a credit card from the same bank with a different name looks like an honest mistake, but can easily cover for a theft of your own card. Taking pictures of your card using cell phones and simply copying down the information when you open a tab or pay are easy to do as well.