Identity Theft
Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information without permission to commit fraud or other crimes. Learn to protect your identity and respond effectively if you become a victim.
Cases reported
Financial impact
Of all cybercrimes
Types of Identity Theft
Aadhaar Card Misuse
Unauthorized use of Aadhaar number for fraudulent activities
Examples
- Fake Aadhaar card generation
- Aadhaar-based loan frauds
- Government benefit theft
- Bank account opening fraud
Prevention
- Lock Aadhaar biometrics
- Monitor Aadhaar authentication logs
- Never share Aadhaar number freely
- Report suspicious activities to UIDAI
PAN Card Fraud
Misuse of PAN card for financial crimes and tax evasion
Examples
- Fake PAN card applications
- Tax return fraud
- Bank account opening
- Investment fraud using PAN
Prevention
- Secure physical PAN card
- Monitor tax return filings
- Check PAN status regularly
- Report lost/stolen PAN immediately
Social Media Impersonation
Creating fake profiles using stolen personal information
Examples
- Fake Facebook/Instagram profiles
- LinkedIn impersonation
- Dating app catfishing
- Professional identity theft
Prevention
- Adjust privacy settings
- Monitor social media mentions
- Report fake profiles immediately
- Limit personal information sharing
Bank Account Takeover
Unauthorized access to bank accounts using stolen credentials
Examples
- Online banking fraud
- Credit card application fraud
- Loan fraud using stolen identity
- Investment account takeover
Prevention
- Use strong, unique passwords
- Enable two-factor authentication
- Monitor account statements
- Report suspicious transactions
Warning Signs of Identity Theft
Be alert to these signs that may indicate your identity has been compromised.
Unexpected bills or statements in your name
Denied credit applications you didn't make
Calls about accounts you didn't open
Missing mail or important documents
Unfamiliar charges on your accounts
Notifications about address changes you didn't make
What to Do If Your Identity is Stolen
Freeze Accounts
Contact banks and credit bureaus to freeze compromised accounts
Change Passwords
Update all passwords and enable 2FA on all accounts
Document Evidence
Save all evidence including screenshots and correspondence
Report to Authorities
File police complaint and report to relevant agencies
Report Identity Theft Immediately
Identity theft can have long-lasting consequences. Report the incident immediately to minimize damage and begin recovery.
Protect Your Identity
Learn more about identity protection strategies and stay informed about the latest threats.