How Concerned Should You Be About Identify Theft and Fraud in Idaho?

During the holiday season, most of us use our credit cards and debit card more than at any time of the year. We are out shopping at stores we may not normally enter, or going to sites that we typically never visit, and put in our info or use our cards in places we typically wouldn't. With so many purchases happening this time of year, if you aren't paying close attention to your statements, you may not realize that a charge has been made that you didn't make. Fraud and identity theft are common these days and peak more during the holiday season. Compared to other states, how does Idaho compare, and should you be worried about identity theft and fraud?

The States Most Vulnerable to Identity Theft and Fraud

Many Americans will experience identity theft and fraud multiple times throughout their life, and the holiday season increases how many people have to deal with it. A list recently released by WalletHub ranked the states by who is the most vulnerable to identity theft and fraud, and which states are the safest. The list used standard categories such as identity theft, fraud, and policy. It was determined that Washington DC is the most vulnerable, with Delaware and Louisiana making up the top three. Washington DC was number one in policy, Delaware was number one in fraud, and Rhode Island was number one in identity theft. The safest state is Montana, just ahead of Arkansas and Indiana to make up the safest three. 

Are Identity Theft and Fraud Common in Idaho? 

When it comes to being vulnerable, Idaho is pretty safe, coming in at 39 out of a possible 51, since Washington DC is included. Idaho ranks 38 in identity theft, 36 in fraud, and 3 in the policy. While nobody is truly safe from these crimes, it is comforting to know that those in Idaho or not targeted and as vulnerable as other states in the country. While it is still likely to happen at some point in time, especially if you shop online ever, the odds are lower. 

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These crimes should not make you afraid to shop and use your cards freely, but you should still be aware, and check your bank statements often, especially around the holiday season, to make sure every purchase made, is one that you made. Be smart, be safe, and don't give out information you don't have to when online or in stores this holiday season.