Who is a likely victim of identity theft?

Who’s Most at Risk for Identity Theft?

When we think of identity theft, images of elderly victims often come to mind—people tricked by phone scams or phishing emails. But the data tells a different story. Contrary to popular belief, young adults are actually the most frequent targets.

Almost 29% of identity theft victims are between 18 and 29 years old, making this the most vulnerable age group. Those aged 30 to 39 aren’t far behind, accounting for 25% of cases. In contrast, only 9% of victims are over 60. While older adults do face a higher risk of financial exploitation—such as being pressured into wiring money or signing over assets—they’re less likely to have their identity stolen outright.

So why are younger people more exposed? Simply put, they’re more active online. Between social media, online shopping, and digital banking, young adults leave a larger digital footprint. That increases opportunities for criminals to harvest personal data. And the most common form of identity theft? Credit card fraud. Thieves use stolen information to make unauthorized purchases, open new accounts, or rack up debt in someone else’s name.

The irony is that younger people often feel invincible when it comes to scams. They’re tech-savvy, yes—but that doesn’t make them immune. In fact, their confidence can sometimes work against them, leading to looser security habits like reusing passwords or oversharing on social platforms.

Meanwhile, older adults may be more cautious, but they’re often less familiar with digital threats. That makes them prime targets for different kinds of fraud—just not identity theft as frequently as one might assume.

The bottom line: no age group is completely safe. But if you're under 30, it’s worth remembering that your digital behavior matters. A little vigilance—monitoring credit reports, using strong passwords, and being careful about what you share online—can go a long way in protecting your identity.