Identity Theft continues to be one of the fastest growing crimes in the United States. However, as time goes on, thieves are coming up with new ways to fool unsuspecting victims. To protect yourself, you must first understand the latest identity theft trends for 2026.
Out of 6.5 million total fraud reports, approximately 1.15 million people reported identity theft to the FTC in 2025. identity fraud now exceeds $50 billion in losses annual/ly, with the average victim losing around $1,600 per theft event. This number continues to rise year after year.
AI – Good or Bad?
Artificial intelligence is changing the landscape of everything technological. It has become a help and a hindrance in the fight against identity theft. Thieves are using AI to create ultra-realistic phishing emails, deepfake voice calls, and synthetic identities. Synthetic identity theft now accounts for nearly 30% of all identity theft cases.
Phishing and Data Breaches Still Leading the Pack
With a record 3,322 data compromises recorded in 2025, phishing, smishing (SMS phishing), and business email compromise (BEC) continues to be the number-one root cause of data breaches. As our society evolves, so do scammers – as evidenced by the fact that 70% of all identity theft occurs online.
SIM Swap Attacks Increasing
One of the fastest growing forms of identity theft is SIM swap fraud, where thieves hijack your phone number to bypass two-factor authentication. SIM swap fraud has surged 50% over the past two years. Digital banking accounts and cryptocurrency wallets are prime targets for this form of ID theft.
What Can You Do?
Using strong, unique passwords and enabling two-factor authentication are the strongest defense you have against online identity theft. Furthermore, enabling authentication apps, reviewing your credit report regularly, and being skeptical of unsolicited messages – no matter how convincing they look – can help keep you from becoming a victim.
Identity theft is evolving fast. Your defenses should too.
