Identity theft is when someone uses your identity and pretends to be you to commit fraud or other crimes.
How this could happen
A scammer finds out enough information about you (often from things that you may have innocently shared online) to be able to convincingly pretend to be you.
Because you have no idea that this is happening, you believe that nothing is wrong.
The scammer has enough information to pretend to be you.
The scammer uses your identity details to get a loan without the intention of paying. If the loan is approved, you may be liable for the entire amount.
Read more about how to avoid being a victim of identity theft and other scams in our tips page.
