Identity theft occurs when someone else wrongly uses your information, acts like you, and intends to commit fraud in your name . Criminals commonly collect other people's names, driver's licenses, or social security numbers. They obtain a social security number because then they can easily obtain fake lines of credit and run up large debts in your name. Someone can also commit criminal acts using your identity. Criminals can obtain some of this information by hacking into your emails, Facebook and other social media sites. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an Original Essay Most teens online say the main reason their identity could have been stolen is the content they post on their social media accounts. Another reason identity theft happens to teens is because, according to a study by the Family Online Safety Institute, 34% of teens report sharing their username and password with someone other than their parent or guardian. When teens share their passwords with other people, they are more likely to experience identity theft. Most often you will know whether you are a victim or not if something bad starts happening, like bank balance decrees, more debt, bad things posted on your social media, online crimes in which you are not involved and much more. People can hack your online banking accounts and use your information to get what they want. Ways to prevent online identity theft are to never share your password with others. Keep your password as secret as possible. When creating a password, make it something difficult, so no one can guess or hack it. Second, don't use your real name in your password. When making online payments, make sure your online browser is protected by online security programs or antivirus, etc. Never save card numbers or PIN codes. Make sure to enable all security features such as WPA encryption. Change the default password and SSID on your wireless router. It is best to log out completely and close your browser when you have finished a secure session. Do not download files or click on hyperlinks provided by strangers.