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This afternoon, we eavesdrop as the son introduces his soon-to-be in-laws to his less than Ozzie and Harriet parents.

Online theft accounts for only 11% of identity theft. 89% percent of identity theft occurs offline.

To see more statistics, visit the Theft Statistics page.

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What Is Identity Theft?

Identity theft, or identity fraud, occurs when someone steals information that defines your personal identity—such as your name, Social Security Number, bank account numbers, and credit card numbers—to reap the benefits of posing as you. These benefits can be financial, such as access to your accounts and credit cards, or they can be reputational in that thieves can use your identity to get a job or commit a crime.

Why Is It a Problem?

In most cases, a thief wants your identity information in order to steal financial assets from you. But even if the thief isn’t stealing money directly from you, you ultimately become responsible for loans or accounts opened with your personal information. Such accounts could affect your credit score and your ability to qualify for loans or accounts of your own.

What Is Offline Identity Theft?

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Over 89% of identity theft occurs offline. Are you protected?

Theft Statistics

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Did you know that over 11 million Americans were the victims of identity theft last year?