Identity theft. It happens daily. You, or someone you know, have likely experienced this personal violation. Television shows have centered episodes around this, and a movie was even made about it recently (“Identity Theft,” with Melissa McCarthy), exposing how easily your information can be stolen and used.

What do you do routinely that can expose you to this threat? What steps do you take to ensure your safety? Could you do more to protect yourself? Think of the many ways you are exposed, from the swipe of a debit card at a kiosk to an online purchase you make. With each transaction, stop and consider how this activity could be making you vulnerable to thieves.

Instructions

Consider your daily activities—as a consumer, student, parent, friend, homeowner or renter, car driver, employee, and so on—and think about the ways you are involved with IT systems.

1. List three IT encounters (ATM, online purchasing, etc.) you have had recently.
2. When, during those encounters, could you have revealed personal information that could be used to steal your identity? Discuss each incident. Remember to use full sentences.
3. Rank the encounters on your list. Which is the most risky and which is the least risky? Use the following scale: highest risk, middle risk, lowest risk.
4. Explain for each one why it is risky to reveal personal information. Remember to use full sentences.
5. Submit one paragraph for each encounter.

Be sure to follow these requirements in your work:

1. Provide 1 paragraph
2. Type your assignment in an MS Word document (.doc or .docx).
3. Times New Roman, 12pt Font, double spaced
4. Do not copy word for word from the textbook or any websites you visit.
5. Include website URLs for the comments you are providing a response.
6. Punctuation, grammar, spelling, and composition are a part of your grade.