With Identity Theft, every time authorities plug one hole, criminals are able to figure out new ways to trick unsuspecting victims. Some now even steal children's Social Security numbers, ruining their credit long before they've opened a single account.

Like phishing, only it uses text messages sent to your cell phone. 

 

3. Vishing (voice phishing):

An automated voice message that directs you to call your bank or credit card company. Under the pretext of clearing up a problem (like theft), you'll be asked to share personal or account information. Keep a list of company toll-free numbers handy so you can call them directly without fearing you've been given bogus information. I also program my banks' and credit card issuers' phone numbers - but not account numbers - into my cell phone in case I'm traveling.

 

5. Skimming
Where crooks use an altered ATM slot and cameras to record account information; also, when dishonest store or restaurant employees use a portable card reader to skim credit or debit card information.

 

6. Spyware
Illicit software you unknowingly download when you open an email attachment, click on a pop-up window or download a corrupted song or game. The spyware can then record your keystrokes to obtain account information or ferret out confidential information on your computer.

 

 

And lastly, don't forget good-old-fashioned pickpocketing, mail theft and rooting through your trash. These are still the ways the majority of people fall victim to identity thieves.