Identity Theft

I was at my father’s bank this past week, doing everything needed to get an Enduring Power of Attorney, when they discovered that someone had stolen my identity to open a bank account.

Fortunately, it was recent, and they had not progressed far. But, like all things in digital life, it takes a lot of human labour to undo.

I was told they used my Passport, which I have not lost, indicating they must have accessed one of the visa application sites or another site that requests a digital copy of your ID.

It is all a double-edged sword. You cannot confirm identity digitally without sharing photo ID, and photo ID means someone else has your details. 

Even using layers of protection, like a Password manager (non-negotiable) does not stop those who seek to gain access from finding a way in. 

Digital moats require vigilance. But almost everyone gets hacked one way or another. Even the smartest. 

Someone or a group of nefarious characters tried to steal my identity, most likely to apply for loans or credit cards. I was lucky to find it inadvertently while taking care of my father. While exhausting and worriesome, I feel lucky.

Be careful out there.

Photo Taken December 14th 2025, Article published December 14th 2025