by: Mike Miller
7/13/2016

How rampant is identity theft in Australia? Apparently, it has gotten pretty bad and is nearing epidemic concern.

How about this – according to a recent study, nearly one in six Australians has been a victim or known somebody who has been a victim of identity theft or misuse in the past six months.

An independent online survey of 1200 people also revealed nine in 10 people were concerned or very concerned about identity theft and misuse. As technology evolved and people undertook more business and transactions online, the risk of identity theft increased, he said.

The survey also revealed the majority of identity theft or misuse occurred over the internet (58 per cent), or through the loss of a credit or debit card (30 per cent).

Stolen identify information was primarily used to purchase goods or services (55 per cent) or to obtain finance, credit or a loan (26 per cent). Information from the survey.

The government has introduced legislation to parliament aimed at strengthening cyber security laws and Australia's ability to combat international cyber-crime.

Do you fear identity theft? While it may not have touched you or someone you know, it is out there. You should definitely take precaution in both giving out personal information and discarding financial documents.