AI And Impersonation
Synthetic identity
A fake identity made from real and invented details.
What it means
A synthetic identity combines real personal data with fake information to create a new identity for fraud.
Example
A scammer uses a real Social Security number with a fake name and address to open accounts.
Warning signs
- Unexpected credit alerts or account notices appear.
- Mail arrives for names you do not recognize.
- A child or inactive credit profile shows unusual activity.
- Accounts appear that you did not open.
Safer next steps
- Review credit reports regularly.
- Freeze credit when appropriate.
- Protect children’s identity information.
- Report accounts you did not open.