Offline methods still most prevalent form of identity theft

As the internet expands in terms of the number of users and services available, security experts are growing increasingly worried over the safety of consumers' personal information and the odds of identity theft. However, a recent study from Travelers Insurance reveals that Americans are still the most at risk of being victims of identity theft through "old-fashioned," offline channels rather than through a breach in online or mobile security. According to the research, offline crimes constitute 73 percent of all identity theft cases, with online or data breach crimes only making up 15 percent of all claims. The most prevalent method for obtaining this data is through stolen wallets, pocketbooks and purses. "When everyday essentials like wallets or drivers licenses are stolen or go missing, identity fraud often follows," said Joe Reynolds, identity fraud product manager at Travelers. "Credit cards, drivers licenses and other sources of personal information enable criminals to commit a fraud or crime, all in your name." Consumers will want to keep a watch on their monthly credit card and bank statements for unusual activity to help prevent abuse of their personal information.