Avoiding Online ID Theft

This module shines a light on online identity theft—what it is, how scammers steal personal information, and the real‑world consequences for your finances and credit. You’ll explore the most common tactics fraudsters use (from phishing emails to fake job offers), learn how to spot red flags before it’s too late, and discover a step‑by‑step recovery plan if your identity does get compromised. Finally, you’ll lock in best practices—strong passwords, two‑factor authentication, privacy settings, and safe browsing habits—to keep your personal data secure long‑term.

Learning Objectives:

Upon completion of this module, students will:

• Define Identity Theft: Articulate what constitutes identity theft and why it matters—even before you have a credit history.
• Recognize Common Scams: Identify phishing, data breaches, public‑Wi‑Fi exploits, fake job offers, impersonation, and other top tactics criminals use to steal your info.
• Respond Effectively: Know the immediate actions to take if you suspect fraud—locking accounts, reporting breaches, disputing charges, and alerting credit bureaus.
• Implement Preventive Measures: Apply robust security habits, including unique passwords, two‑factor authentication, social‑media privacy settings, and cautious use of public networks.
• Maintain Vigilance: Monitor accounts and credit reports regularly and cultivate a skeptical mindset to stay one step ahead of scammers.