Identity Theft Articles

The massive breach of credit card information from TJX Corporation in Massachusetts grabbed national headlines. Orchestrated by nearly a dozen hackers, customer account information was accessed through wireless networks. Customers of TJMaxx, HomeGoods, Marshalls, and other stores were victimized. Recently another method of identity theft has increased in appearance. It’s called “skimming,” and it can happen almost anywhere from restaurants and retail stores to gas stations and ATMs. “Skimming” involves a portable card reading device that is placed on top of the normal devices in which you would usually swipe your credit or debit cards. Once swiped, the device will store all of your personal account information, later to be uploaded into a computer. From there, the thief can create a blank credit card with your information and proceed to make purchases and ATM withdrawals from your accounts.

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