Identity theft continues to evolve, and in 2025, scammers are using increasingly sophisticated tactics to steal your personal information. Understanding the most common identity theft scams can help you protect yourself and your finances.
Key Takeaways:
- Scammers use various tactics including phishing, SIM swapping, and deepfake technology to commit identity theft.
- Recognizing common identity theft scams is the first step in safeguarding your personal data.
- If you become a victim, knowing your legal rights and options is essential for recovery.
Identity theft remains one of the fastest-growing crimes in the United States, and California is no exception. Every year, scammers come up with new ways to trick people into handing over sensitive information or accessing their financial accounts.
As a team of consumer lawyers in California, Loker Law has seen firsthand how devastating these common identity theft scams can be — not just financially, but emotionally as well. In 2025, identity theft isn’t just about stolen credit card numbers anymore. The scams have become more complex, blending technology and social engineering in ways that can fool even the most cautious individuals.
Our latest blog will break down the most common identity theft scams you need to be aware of this year, and what you can do if you find yourself targeted.
What Is Identity Theft?
Before diving into the scams, let’s clarify what identity theft means. Identity theft happens when someone illegally obtains your personal information—such as your social security number, bank account details, or passwords—and uses it without your permission. This type of theft can result in fraudulent charges, loans opened in your name, or even damage to your credit history.
Understanding how identity theft occurs is key to protecting yourself. Let’s explore the common identity theft scams making the rounds in 2025.
1. Phishing and Smishing Attacks
Phishing has been around for years, but it remains one of the most common identity theft scams. In phishing scams, fraudsters send emails pretending to be trusted entities like your bank, a government agency, or a popular company. These emails often contain links or attachments that install malware or direct you to fake websites designed to steal your login credentials.
In 2025, smishing — phishing via text messages — is equally prevalent. These texts can look like legitimate alerts about your bank account, credit card, package deliveries, and unpaid bills, tolls, and tickets. They urge you to click a link or provide personal info immediately, playing on urgency and fear.
How to protect yourself:
- Don’t click on suspicious links or attachments.
- Verify the sender’s email or phone number.
- Contact the company directly through official channels to confirm requests.
2. SIM Swapping
SIM swapping is a high-tech scam that’s become more common as we rely on mobile phones for authentication. Here, scammers trick or bribe mobile carriers into transferring your phone number to a SIM card they control. Once they have your phone number, they can intercept two-factor authentication codes sent via text, giving them access to your email, banking apps, and social media accounts.
This scam can lead to immediate identity theft and financial fraud.
Warning signs:
- Sudden loss of cell service without explanation.
- Receiving alerts about SIM changes you didn’t request.
Protective steps:
- Use app-based authenticators instead of SMS for two-factor authentication.
- Set up a PIN or password with your mobile carrier.
- Monitor your phone’s activity for unusual interruptions.
3. Deepfake and AI-Driven Scams
As artificial intelligence technology advances, scammers are leveraging deepfake videos and voice synthesis to impersonate people you trust. For example, you might receive a call or video message that sounds or looks like a family member or a company executive asking for sensitive information or urgent money transfers.
These scams are especially dangerous because they bypass traditional suspicion triggers—if you see and hear someone you trust, you’re more likely to comply.
What you can do:
- Verify requests independently by contacting the person through known channels.
- Be skeptical of urgent or unusual requests involving money or personal info.
4. Fake Government and Law Enforcement Notices
Scammers frequently impersonate government agencies like the IRS, Social Security Administration, or law enforcement. They send emails, letters, or make calls claiming you owe money, have a warrant, or your Social Security number has been compromised. Their goal is to scare you into giving up personal data or paying fake fines.
This is one of the most persistent common identity theft scams due to its emotional manipulation.
Tips to avoid falling victim:
- Remember, government agencies typically contact you by mail, not by phone or email.
- Never provide personal information or payment without confirming the legitimacy of the request.
- Report suspicious communications to official authorities.
5. Credit Card and Loan Fraud
Using stolen personal information, scammers can open credit card accounts or loans in your name. This can quickly ruin your credit score and cause major headaches while trying to clear your record.
Often, victims don’t notice this type of fraud until they start receiving bills or get denied credit.
How to stay vigilant:
- Regularly check your credit reports for unfamiliar accounts.
- Use credit monitoring services that alert you to new activity.
- Freeze your credit if you suspect your information has been compromised.
What To Do If You Become a Victim
If you suspect you’ve been targeted by any of these common identity theft scams, acting quickly is crucial:
- Report the fraud to your financial institutions and freeze your accounts if needed.
- File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov.
- Place fraud alerts or credit freezes on your credit files with the major credit bureaus.
- Work with a consumer lawyer who understands California laws to protect your rights and help you navigate the recovery process.
Loker Law Can Help Fight Back Against Identity Theft
At Loker Law, we understand how overwhelming identity theft can be. Our experienced consumer law attorneys specialize in helping victims recover from identity theft and hold responsible parties accountable. Whether it’s guiding you through disputes with creditors, negotiating with credit bureaus, or pursuing legal action, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
If you’re concerned about falling victim to one of the common identity theft scams or need help after an incident, don’t wait. Reach out to Loker Law today to book a free consultation and protect your financial future.
Identity theft is constantly evolving, but being informed about the most common identity theft scams in 2025 puts you ahead. Stay vigilant, protect your personal information, and remember that help is available if you become a victim.
