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Identity theft

Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personally identifying information (PII), without your permission, to commit fraud or other crimes. Examples of PII are your name, Social Security number, date of birth and passwords.

How do thieves steal an identity?

The methods thieves use to steal your information include:

  1. Traditional theft
  2. Searching through trash
  3. Phishing attacks
  4. Social engineering
  5. Shoulder surfing
  6. Hacking

What can be done with your personal information?

  1. Bank, credit card and other financial fraud
  2. Government document fraud (obtain drivers license, get government benefits)
  3. Employment fraud (get job using your Social Security number)
  4. Medical fraud (get medical services as you)

Are you following information security best practices?

Take a look at our 10 best practices to find out. It's only a single page and it'll help you protect yourself and your data at VCU and at home.

Identity theft prevention

VCU's identity theft prevention program is designed to detect, prevent, and mitigate identity theft in connection with VCU accounts. Find out how to idenitify and respond to warning signs.

Don't get lured by a phishing scam

VCU users are a constant target of phishing scams. Find out how phishers try to trick you and how to protect yourself.

Policies and standards

Users of VCU information systems and data are expected to adhere to VCU's information security policies and standards.

Did you know?

In 2008, 92% of critical Microsoft vulnerabilities would have been mitigated if user didn't have administrative rights.

What is information security?

Information security is the protection of information from unauthorized access, disruption and modification, regardless of whether the information is in written, electronic or spoken form.

Random tip

If confidential data is no longer needed, delete it.

Want to learn more?

Follow VCU Information Security on Twitter for short updates to keep you in the loop about information security risks, incidents and tips. Access via the Web, an RSS feed or your handheld device.