Identity theft has long been a prevalent crime, but its methods have evolved significantly over time.
Once limited to stealing someone’s identity for financial gain or unlawful entry into a country, today’s criminals can access a person’s entire digital life with just a few taps on a smartphone.
Brigadier Ntuli, the Provincial Head for Commercial Crime Detection in the Free State, recently spoke with Bloemfontein Courant to share crucial advice on how readers can safeguard their personal information in this increasingly digital world.
Brigadier Ntuli defined identity theft as the unlawful theft of “another person’s personal particulars for the use of personal gains, including but not limited to gaining unfair advantage in employment opportunities, unlawful financial benefits, illegal citizenship acquisition, and opening businesses, among other things.”
She emphasised that anyone can be a perpetrator, and it’s vital to be cautious about who has access to your personal information. Ntuli shared an example: “This usually begins when someone asks to date you online. You communicate without meeting them, then they invite you to their place. They ask for your ID to book a flight ticket for you and send you what seems like a ticket. But it’s not genuine – it’s a fake. The intention was to get your ID.”
Given the risks, Brigadier Ntuli stressed the importance of reporting suspected identity theft immediately. Failure to do so could leave you liable for any damages or costs incurred.
“The bank will never call you and ask for your account number, confirm your ID number, or request your PIN. As soon as they ask for your PIN or the last digits on your card, that’s not the bank,” she warned.
Brigadier Ntuli also highlighted the long-term effects of identity theft, including damage to your credit profile, being sued for debts that aren’t yours, increased insurance rates, emotional suffering that could lead to depression, and even difficulties registering newborns within 30 days.
“Awareness is crucial,” she added, “because it galvanises the community to always be vigilant about their surroundings and the importance of safeguarding their identity, as well as understanding the consequences of failing to do so.”
How to protect yourself:
- Update your passwords regularly.
- Report to the nearest SAPS if you lose your ID document.
- Apply for a new ID if you still possess a green ID book.
- Safeguard your ID card with the same care as your bank cards.
- Remember: The Smart ID Card has security features like a chip to prevent fraud, but always be wary of potential collaborators within the Department of Home Affairs network who could facilitate fraudulent transactions.
Gypseenia Lion
