Warnings Issued Regarding Consumer Fraud and Identity Theft Risks

The Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC) provides free assistance to consumers who are victims of identity theft crimes. The organization notes that Social Security numbers are unique identifiers that can be targets for financial fraud if stolen. Criminals can acquire these numbers through major data breaches, theft, or by responding to fraudulent requests.

The reports detail how dedicated scammers can use a Social Security number combined with other personal information to commit identity theft. The FTC is discussing these broader data theft risks, which affect consumers across various sectors.