9% of identity fraud happened online, according to a research report by Javelin Strategy and Research. Average loss from internet-related identity fraud increased from $2,897 in 2004 to $6,432 in 2005.


9% of identity fraud happened online, according to a research report by Javelin Strategy and Research. Average loss from internet-related identity fraud increased from $2,897 in 2004 to $6,432 in 2005.

The report, titled “2006 Identity Fraud Survey Report”, also revealed that phishing has the highest length of misuse, with 173 days.

Data taken from friends, relatives, acquaintances or in-home employees was used for 134 days and lost or stolen credit cards were used for 75 days.

Rubina Johannes, research analyst at Javelin Strategy & Research, said: “With the appropriate security and consumer education, phishing on existing accounts can be minimized.

Fraudsters are becoming more and more savvy in garnering seemingly innocuous pieces of personal information, which can then be used to open new, fraudulent accounts in the victims’ names.” [Source]

Johannes noted that 63% of potential identity theft is under the primary control of consumers.

According to a report released by the FTC, in terms of overall fraud, internet auctions were the top complaint category (12%). It has declined from 16% in 2004.

In 55% of reported cases in 2005, fraudsters used email and web as the initial point of contact.

The FTC reported that 46% of all fraud complaints were internet-related, with losses of over $335. The rate has declined from 52% in 2004.

To purchase the “2006 Identity Fraud Survey Report” by Javelin Strategy and Research, click here.

To read the FTC’s report titled “National and State Trends in Fraud and Identity Theft”, click here.

You will need Adobe Acrobat to view this file. To download Adobe Acrobat, click here.

 

 

 

 

Sharing is caring