Identity Theft Methods: "The Insider"

This method of identity theft is difficult, if not impossible, to prevent yourself. You just have to hope the employees at the companies you do business with are honest.

"The insider" is an employee at your bank, insurance company, doctor's office or anywhere your personal or financial information can be easily accessed. Identity thieves find personnel at these companies, usually ones who aren't paid well, and bribe them to turnover important client information. Names, social security numbers and account numbers will be handed over in exchange for cash (or other favors, as this particular article implies). It doesn't stop here. Insiders have also been known to create false documents (such as birth certificates) or alter documents for a price.

Another way identity thieves can access information is to become "the insider" by getting a job at a company or agency where he/she will have access to confidential information. With direct access to this information, the savvy thief will take whatever information he/she needs and most likely quit the job before any illegal activity is detected.

Obviously, it would be impossible to cover every possible scenario here, but you get the point. This isn't something you the consumer can't control, but if you are concerned, you can always ask the companies you do regular business with about the methods they use to screen employees. If you think the proper precautions are not being taken, you may want to go elsewhere. Order copies of your credit reports at least twice a year. That's the best way to be sure your credit isn't being used fraudulently.