According to a survey published on Wednesday by the Initiative Sicher Handeln (ISH), one in 10 Germans has fallen victim to identity theft. The survey, conducted by the global public opinion and data company YouGov, also revealed that one in three Germans has encountered identity theft in some form, either personally or through someone they know.
Criminals have been using stolen user data to create new accounts, make purchases, or sign contracts in the name of the victim, stated the ISH. The risk of becoming a victim of identity theft is on the rise, with the ISH predicting that the number of stolen user accounts could triple this year, reaching 555 million in 2022. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) by criminals is cited as a contributing factor to this increase.
“Criminals could leverage AI to automate their fraudulent activities more easily and rapidly, allowing them to perpetrate numerous offenses simultaneously,” explained ISH spokesperson Harald Schmidt. The Federal Cyber Security Authority (BSI) in Germany has noted that data breaches have led to large amounts of stolen passwords and personal information in recent years, with criminals becoming more sophisticated in their approaches.
BSI stated in late 2023 that the emergence of generative artificial intelligence presents new challenges in the security sector. Manipulated content is becoming increasingly realistic and harder to detect due to the continuous improvement in the quality of publicly available tools. This trend poses a significant threat to individuals and organizations alike, as cybercriminals exploit advanced technologies to perpetrate identity theft and other fraudulent activities.
The ISH urged individuals to take preventive measures to protect their personal data and reduce the risk of falling victim to identity theft. This includes safeguarding passwords, being cautious about sharing sensitive information online, and regularly monitoring financial accounts for any suspicious activity. Additionally, the ISH recommended staying informed about the latest cybersecurity threats and implementing security measures accordingly.
Authorities in Germany are working to enhance cybersecurity measures and combat the growing threat of identity theft. Efforts to strengthen data protection regulations, improve response mechanisms to data breaches, and increase public awareness about cybersecurity best practices are being prioritized. Collaboration between government agencies, cybersecurity experts, and technology companies is essential to effectively address the evolving challenges posed by cybercrime.
As technology continues to advance and cybercriminals adapt their tactics, staying vigilant and proactive in protecting personal information is crucial. Individuals and organizations must remain attentive to cybersecurity risks, implement robust security measures, and stay informed about emerging threats to mitigate the impact of identity theft and other cybercrimes.
