Even if you have been closely monitoring your personal records while staying safe at home for the last year, it’s important to know that online crime has risen dramatically around the globe. For example, according to the US Federal Trade Commission, reported cases of identity theft in the United States doubled from 2019 to 2020. One of the greatest increases has been cases in which fraudulent information is used to obtain government benefits.
Many national governments provide resources for victims of identity fraud, such as excellent tips for protecting yourself against identity theft and related crime, examples of popular scams, and what to do next if you are a victim:
United States:
FBI: Internet Crime Complaint Center
United Kingdom:
Action Fraud: National Fraud & Cyber Crime Reporting Centre
Information Commissioner’s Office: Identity Theft
Australia:
Australian Federal Police: Identity Crime
Canada:
Office of Consumer Affairs: Identity Theft
European Union:
European Union Agency for Cybersecurity
Europol: Tips and Advice to Prevent Identity Theft Happening to You
Other great sources of information can include your home and host country governments, your bank and credit card providers, your local police, consumers unions, and special interest groups.
Written by Erin Fitzgerald, GMS, Content Manager
