Id theft is a white collar crime that continues to make consumers suffer. There are many identity theft stories that leave credit holders fearful of conducting online transactions, or sharing their information even when it's necessary. They're afraid that they may suffer the effects of identity theft and end up with a ruined future. Identity theft cannot affect you if you keep your credit secure. You can do this by making sure that your information is safe.

A stolen identity leads to a ruined life. You will experience problems that can span from your finances, to your career, and even to personal matters. Losing everything that's important to you in just a few minutes is expected when you're a victim of identity theft, so it's time that you become extra aware of this crime.

There are many unexpected places where identity thieves find their unsuspecting victims. These places are part of your daily routine, so you don't suspect that you could be victimized at these places. You can never be too careful in this day and age, especially when identity theft is so rampant. Knowing about the places where you can encounter identity theft can help you protect yourself and your family.

Where Your Identity Can Be Stolen

Every day, consumers visit various establishments, both online and offline. It's necessary for them to do so because they have to avail of the goods and services they need. However, a prudent credit holder like you should be aware of identity theft hot spots so that you can be more protective of your information. Identity theft is a white collar crime that targets anyone vulnerable and careless. Here are some of the venues where you could encounter identity theft:

1. The Internet
   
   The Internet is the main communication superhighway and identity thieves make the most out of it. They target your email and social networking accounts to get vital information from you. Phishing scams involve the use of emails, making them look that they're from credible sources. Once you respond to these emails, the identity thieves are able to get your vital information. Some thieves enter social networks and access various accounts. There are users who post their personal information on their walls making it easy for them to access bank accounts or credit accounts. Phony websites and pop up ads are also all over the Internet, making it possible for thieves to prey on consumers who want to avail services and products.
   
   
2. Car Loan Application offices
   
   Identity theft in auto loan offices is getting worse these days. It's becoming one of the easiest places to have your identity stolen. When you apply for a car loan, you provide all the information that you can. After you do this, the thieves get easy access to your data straight from the sales desk or from their trash bin when the dealers dispose of their paperwork. For instance, the sales clerk could ask you to fill up a purchase form, especially if you test drive a car. Afterwards, they just discard the form, which could easily give the thieves easy access to your accounts and to your life.
   
   
3. Pharmacies and clinics
   
   Pharmacies and health clinics have records of your sensitive information such as your birthday, name, phone number, address, employer information, and medical insurance information. Many cases of medical identity theft have been known wherein the thieves obtained data from pharmacy waste baskets and information sheets. The thieves could easily use your information to acquire medications and sell them to the public.

Medical information could also be taken in any doctor's office or clinic. When your data is taken, your medical history can easily be altered and this can cause havoc on your insurance claims. Your medical insurance could also be used by thieves to get medical services and prescriptions in your name without your knowledge.

Knowing where you should be careful with your data is very important. May the new knowledge about the areas prone to identity theft help you secure your data and credit.