Search Results for: synthetic id

Experian on the State of Identity podcast In today’s environment, any conversation on the identity management industry needs to include some mention of synthetic identity risk. The fact is, it’s top of mind for almost everyone. Institutions are trying to scope their risk level and identify losses, while service providers are innovating ways to solve the problem. Even consumers are starting to understand the term, albeit via a local newscast designed to scare the heck out of them. With all this in mind, I was very happy to be invited to speak with Cameron D’Ambrosi at One World Identity (OWI) on the State of Identity podcast, focusing on synthetic identity fraud. Our discussion focused on some of the unique findings and recommended best practices highlighted in our recently published white paper on the subject, Synthetic identities: getting real with customers. Additionally, we discussed how a lack of agreement on the definition and size of the synthetic identity problem further complicates the issue. This all stems from inconsistent loss reporting, a lack of confirmable victims and an absence of an exact definition of a synthetic identity to begin with. Discussions must continue to better align us all. I certainly appreciate that OWI dedicated the podcast to this subject. And I hope listeners take away a few helpful points that can assist them in their organization’s efforts to better identify synthetic identities, reduce financial losses and minimize reputation risks.

Sophisticated criminals work hard to create convincing, verifiable personas they can use to commit fraud. Here are the 3 main ways fraudsters manufacture synthetic IDs: Credit applications and inquiries that build a synthetic credit profile over time. Exploitation of authorized user processes to take over or piggyback on legitimate profiles. Data furnishing schemes to falsify regular credit reporting agency updates. Fraudsters are highly motivated to innovate their approaches rapidly. You need to implement a solution that addresses the continuing rise of synthetic IDs from multiple engagement points. Learn more

The data to create synthetic identities is available. And the marketplace to exchange and monetize that data is expanding rapidly. The fact that hundreds of millions of names, addresses, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers (SSNs) have been breached in the last year alone, provides an easy path for criminals to surgically target new combinations of data. Armed with an understanding of the actual associations of these personally identifiable information (PII) elements, fraudsters can better navigate the path to perpetrate identity theft, identity manipulation, or synthetic identity fraud schemes on a grand scale. Using information such as birth dates and addresses in combination with Social Security numbers, criminals can target new combinations of data to yield better results with lower risk of detection. Some examples of this would be: identity theft, existing account takeovers, or the deconstruction and reconstruction of those PII elements to better create effective synthetic identities. Experian has continued to evolve and innovate against fraud risks and attacks with an understanding of attack rates, vectors, and the shifting landscape in data availability and security. In doing so, we’ve historically operated under the assumption that all PII is already compromised in some way or is easily done so. Because of this, we employ a layered approach, providing a more holistic view of an identity and the devices that are used over time by that identity. Relying solely on PII to validate and verify an identity is simply unwise and ineffective in this era of data compromise. We strive to continuously cultivate the broadest and most in-depth set of traditional, innovative and alternative data assets available. To do this, we must enable the integration of diverse identity attributes and intelligence to balance risk, while maintaining a positive customer experience. It’s been quite some time since the use of basic PII verification alone has been predictive of identity risk or confidence.  Instead, validation and verification is founded in the ongoing definition and association of identities, the devices commonly used by those individuals, and the historical trends in their behavior. Download our newest White Paper, Synthetic Identities: Getting real with customers, for an in-depth Experian perspective on this increasingly significant fraud risk.

A combination of mass identity data compromise and the increasing abilities of organized fraud rings has created a synthetic identity epidemic that is impacting all markets. Here are the three ways that synthetic identities are generally created: Credit applications and inquiries that result in synthetic credit profile creation or build. Exploitation of the authorized user process designed to take over or piggyback on legitimate credit profiles. Data furnishing schemes that falsify regular credit reporting agency updates. When it comes to fighting synthetic fraud, we all need to be a part of the solution – or we are just a part of the problem. Mitigate synthetic identity fraud >

Mitigating synthetic identities Synthetic identity fraud is an epidemic that does more than negatively affect portfolio performance. It can hurt your reputation as a trusted organization. Here is our suggested 4-pronged approach that will help you mitigate this type of fraud: Identify how much you could lose or are losing today to synthetic fraud. Review and analyze your identity screening operational processes and procedures. Incorporate data, analytics and cutting-edge tools to enable fraud detection through consumer authentication. Analyze your portfolio data quality as reported to credit reporting agencies. Reduce synthetic identity fraud losses through a multi-layer methodology design that combats both the rise in synthetic identity creation and use in fraud schemes. Mitigating synthetic identity fraud>  

The creation of synthetic identities (synthetic id) relies upon an ecosystem of institutions, data aggregators, credit reporting agencies and consumers. All of which are exploited by an online and mobile-driven market, along with an increase in data breaches and dark web sharing. It’s a real and growing problem that’s impacting all markets. With significant focus on new customer acquisition and particular attention being paid to underbanked, emerging, and new-to-country consumers, this poses a large threat to your onboarding and customer management policies, in addition to overall profitability. Synthetic identity fraud is an epidemic that does more than negatively affect portfolio performance. It can hurt your reputation as a trusted organization and expose institutions, like yours, as paths of lesser resistance for fraudsters to use in the creation and farming of synthetic identities. Here is a suggested four-pronged approach to mitigate this type of fraud: The first step is knowing your risk exposure to synthetic identity fraud. Identify how much you could lose or are losing today using a targeted segmentation analysis to examine portfolios or customer populations. Next, review your front- and back-end identity screening operational processes and procedures and analyze that information to ensure you have industry best practices, procedures and verification tools deployed. Then incorporate data, analytics and some of the industry’s cutting edge tools. This enables you to perform targeted consumer authentication and identify opportunities to better capture the majority of fraud and operational waste. Lastly, ensure your organization is part of the solution – not the problem. Analyze your portfolio data quality as reported to credit reporting agencies and then minimize your exposure to negative compliance audit results and reputational risk. Our fraud and identity management consultants can help you reduce synthetic identity fraud losses through a multilayer methodology design that combats the rise in synthetic identity creation and use in fraud schemes.

This article first appeared in Baseline Magazine Since it is possible for cyber-criminals to create a synthetic person, businesses must be able to differentiate between synthetic and true-party identities. Children often make up imaginary friends and have a way of making them come to life. They may come over to play, go on vacation with you and have sleepover parties. As a parent, you know they don’t really exist, but you play along anyway. Think of synthetic identities like imaginary friends. Unfortunately, some criminals create imaginary identities for nefarious reasons, so the innocence associated with imaginary friends is quickly lost. Fraudsters combine and manipulate real consumer data with fictitious demographic information to create a “new” or “synthetic” individual. Once the synthetic person is “born,” fraudsters create a financial life and social history that mirrors true-party behaviors. The similarities in financial activities make it difficult to detect good from bad and real from synthetic. There really is no difference in the world of automated transaction processing between you and a synthetic identity. Often the synthetic “person” is viewed as a thin or shallow file consumer— perhaps a millennial. I have a hard time remembering all of my own passwords, so how do organized “synthetic schemes” keep all the information usable and together across hundreds of accounts? Our data scientists have found that information is often shared from identity to identity and account to account. For instance, perhaps synthetic criminals are using the same or similar passwords or email addresses across products and accounts in your portfolio. Or, perhaps physical address and phone records have cross-functional similarities. The algorithms and sciences are much more complex, but this simplifies how we are able to link data, analytics, strategies and scores. Identifying the Business Impact of Synthetic-Identity Fraud Most industry professionals look at synthetic-identity fraud as a relatively new fraud threat. The real risk runs much deeper in an organization than just operational expense and fraud loss dollars. Does your fraud strategy include looking at all types of risk, compliance reporting, and how processes affect the customer experience? To identify the overall impact synthetic identities can have on your institution, you should start asking: Are you truly complying with "Know Your Customer" (KYC) regulations when a synthetic account exists in your active portfolio? Does your written "Customer Identification Program" (CIP) include or exclude synthetic identities? Should you be reporting this suspicious activity to the compliance officer (or department) and submitting a suspicious activity report (SAR)? Should you charge off synthetic accounts as credit or fraud losses? Which department should be the owner of suspected synthetic accounts: Credit Risk, Collections or Fraud? Do you have run any anti-money laundering (AML) risk when participating in money movements and transfers? Depending on your answers to the above questions, you may be incurring potential risks in the policies and procedures of synthetic identity treatment, operational readiness and training practices. Since it is possible to create a synthetic person, businesses must be able to differentiate between synthetic and true-party identities, just as parents need to differentiate between their child's real and imaginary friends.

As we prepare to attend next week’s FS-ISAC & BITS Summit we know that the financial services industry is abuzz about massive losses from the ever-evolving attack vectors including DDoS, Malware, Data Breaches, Synthetic Identities, etc. Specifically, the recent $200 million (and counting) in losses tied to a sophisticated card fraud scheme involving thousands of fraudulent applications submitted over several years using synthetic identities. While the massive scale and effectiveness of the attack seems to suggest a novel approach or gap in existing fraud prevention controls, the fact of the matter is that many of the perpetrators could have been detected at account opening, long before they had an opportunity to cause financial losses. Synthetic identities have been a headache for financial institutions for years, but only recently have criminal rings begun to exploit this attack vector at such a large scale. The greatest challenge with synthetic identities is that traditional account opening processes focus on identity verification compliance around the USA PATRIOT Act and FACT Act Red Flags guidance, risk management using credit bureau scores, and fraud detection using known fraudulent data points. A synthetic identity ring simply sidesteps those controls by using new false identities created with data that could be legitimate, have no established credit history, or slightly manipulate elements of data from individuals with excellent credit scores. The goal is to avoid detection by “blending in” with the thousands of credit card, bank account, and loan applications submitted each day where individuals do not have a credit history, where minor typos cause identity verification false positives, or where addresses and other personal data does not align with credit reports. Small business accounts are an even easier target, as third-party data sources to verify their authenticity are sparse even though the financial stakes are higher with large lines of credit, multiple signors, and complex (sometimes international) transactions. Detecting these tactics is nearly impossible in a channel where anonymity is king — and many rings have become experts on gaming the system, especially as institutions continue to migrate the bulk of their originations to the online channel and the account opening process becomes increasingly faceless. While the solutions described above play a critical role in meeting compliance and risk management objectives, they unfortunately often fall short when it comes to detecting synthetic identities. Identity verification vendors were quick to point the finger at lapses in financial institutions’ internal and third-party behavioral and transactional monitoring solutions when the recent $200 million attack hit the headlines, but these same providers’ failure to deploy device intelligence alongside traditional controls likely led to the fraudulent accounts being opened in the first place. With synthetic identities, elements of legitimate creditworthy consumers are often paired with other invalid or fictitious applicant data so fraud investigators cannot rely on simply verifying data against a credit report or public data source. In many cases, the device used to submit an application may be the only common element used to link and identify other seemingly unrelated applications. Several financial institutions have already demonstrated success at leveraging device intelligence along with a powerful risk engine and integrated link analysis tools to pinpoint these complex attacks. In fact, one example alone spanned hundreds of applications and represented millions of dollars in fraud saves at a top bank. The recent synthetic ring comprising over 7,000 false identities and 25,000 fraudulent cards may be an extreme example of the potential scope of this problem; however, the attack vector will only continue to grow until device intelligence becomes an integrated component of all online account opening decisions across the industry. Even though most institutions are satisfying Red Flags guidance, organizations failing to institute advanced account opening controls such as complex device intelligence can expect to see more attacks and will likely struggle with higher monetary losses from accounts that never should have been booked.

With the rise of digital interactions, identity fraud has become an unassuming threat that impacts individuals, businesses, and institutions worldwide. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), 5.4 million consumer reports regarding fraud and consumer protection were filed in 2023. Identity fraud, which is characterized as when an individual's personal information is stolen and used without their consent for fraudulent purposes, has devastating consequences for consumers, including financial losses, damaged credit scores, legal issues, and emotional distress. Financial institutions face damaging consequences beyond financial losses, including reputational damage, operational disruption, and regulatory scrutiny. As technology advances, so do fraudsters' tactics, making it increasingly challenging to detect and prevent identity-related crimes. So, what are financial institutions to do? Industry-leading institutions apply a layered approach to solving fraud that starts with a fraud risk assessment. What is a fraud risk assessment? When opening a new account, banks typically conduct a fraud risk assessment to verify the identity of the individual or entity applying for the account and to assess the likelihood of fraudulent activity. Banks also assess the applicant's credit history, financial background, and transaction patterns to identify red flags or suspicious activity. Advanced fraud detection tools and technologies are employed to monitor account opening activities in real-time and detect signs of fraudulent behavior. This assessment is crucial for ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, mitigating the risk of financial loss, and safeguarding against identity theft. Understanding the importance of fraud risk assessments A fraud risk assessment is crucial for banks during account opening as it helps verify the identity of applicants and mitigate the risk of fraudulent activity. By assessing the likelihood and potential impact of identity fraud, banks can implement measures to protect customers' assets and protect against losses in their portfolio. Additionally, conducting thorough risk assessments enables banks to comply with regulatory requirements, which mandate the verification of customer identities to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing. By adhering to these regulations and implementing effective fraud detection measures, banks can enhance trust and confidence among customers, regulators, and stakeholders, reinforcing the integrity and stability of the financial system. 10 tools to consider when building an effective fraud risk assessment Several key factors should be carefully considered in an identity fraud risk assessment to ensure thorough evaluation and effective mitigation of identity fraud risks. Financial institutions should consider emerging threats and trends such as synthetic identity fraud, account takeover attacks, and social engineering scams when conducting a risk assessment. By staying abreast of evolving tactics used by fraudsters, organizations can proactively adapt their fraud prevention strategies and controls. Here are 10 tools that can help catch red flags for fraud prevention: Identity verification: Identity verification is the first line of defense against identity theft, account takeover, and other fraudulent activities. By verifying the identities of individuals before granting access to services or accounts, organizations can ensure that only legitimate users are granted access. Effective identity verification methods, such as biometric authentication, document verification, and knowledge-based authentication, help mitigate the risk of unauthorized access and fraudulent transactions. Implementing robust identity verification measures protects organizations from financial losses and reputational damage and enhances trust and confidence among customers and stakeholders. Device intelligence: Device intelligence provides insights into the devices used in online transactions, enabling organizations to identify and mitigate fraudulent activities. Organizations can detect suspicious behavior indicative of fraudulent activity by analyzing device-related data such as IP addresses, geolocation, device fingerprints, and behavioral patterns. Device intelligence allows organizations to differentiate between legitimate users and fraudsters, enabling them to implement appropriate security measures, such as device authentication or transaction monitoring. Phone data: Phone and Mobile Network Operator (MNO) data offers valuable insights into the mobile devices and phone numbers used in transactions. By analyzing MNO data such as subscriber information, call records, and location data, organizations can verify the authenticity of users and detect suspicious activities. MNO data enables organizations to confirm the legitimacy of phone numbers, detect SIM swapping or account takeover attempts, and identify fraudulent transactions. Leveraging MNO data allows organizations to strengthen their fraud prevention measures, enhance customer authentication processes, and effectively mitigate the risk of fraudulent activities in an increasingly mobile-driven environment. Email attributes: Email addresses serve as a primary identifier and communication channel for users in digital transactions. Organizations can authenticate user identities, confirm account ownership, and detect suspicious activities such as phishing attempts or identity theft by verifying email addresses. Analyzing email addresses enables organizations to identify patterns of fraudulent behavior, block unauthorized access attempts, and enhance security measures. Furthermore, email address validation helps prevent fraudulent transactions, safeguard sensitive information, and protect against financial losses and reputational damage. Leveraging email addresses as part of fraud prevention strategies enhances trustworthiness in digital interactions. Address verification: Address verification provides essential information for authenticating user identities and detecting suspicious activities. By verifying addresses, organizations can confirm the legitimacy of user accounts, prevent identity theft, and detect fraudulent transactions. Address validation enables organizations to ensure that the provided address matches the user's identity and reduces the risk of fraudulent activities such as account takeover or shipping fraud. Behavioral analytics: Behavioral analytics enables organizations to detect anomalies and patterns indicative of fraudulent activity. By analyzing user behavior, such as transaction history, navigation patterns, and interaction frequency, organizations can identify deviations from normal behavior and flag suspicious activities for further investigation. Behavioral analytics allows organizations to create profiles of typical user behavior and detect deviations that may signal fraud, such as unusual login times or transaction amounts. Consortia: Consortia facilitate collaboration and information sharing among organizations to combat fraudulent activities collectively. By joining forces through consortia, organizations can leverage shared data, insights, and resources to more effectively identify emerging fraud trends, patterns, and threats. Consortia enables participating organizations to benefit from a broader and more comprehensive view of fraudulent activities, enhancing their ability to detect and prevent fraud. Risk engines: Risk engines enable real-time analysis of transaction data and user behavior to detect and mitigate fraudulent activities. By leveraging advanced algorithms and machine learning techniques, risk engines assess the risk associated with each transaction and user interaction, flagging suspicious activities for further investigation or intervention. Risk engines help organizations identify anomalies, patterns, and trends indicative of fraudulent behavior, allowing for timely detection and prevention of fraud. Additionally, risk engines can adapt and evolve over time to stay ahead of emerging threats, enhancing their effectiveness in mitigating fraud. Orchestration streamlines and coordinates the various components of a fraud detection and prevention strategy. By orchestrating different fraud prevention tools, technologies, and processes, organizations can optimize their efforts to combat fraud effectively. Orchestration allows for seamless integration and automation of workflows, enabling real-time data analysis and rapid response to emerging threats. Step-up authentication: Step-up authentication provides an additional layer of security to verify users' identities during high-risk transactions or suspicious activities. By requiring users to provide additional credentials or undergo further authentication steps, such as biometric verification or one-time passcodes, organizations can mitigate the risk of unauthorized access and fraudulent transactions. Step-up authentication allows organizations to dynamically adjust security measures based on the perceived risk level, ensuring that stronger authentication methods are employed when necessary. By layering these tools effectively businesses remove gaps that fraudsters would typically exploit. Learn more

Four capabilities to consider for improved coverage and customer experience. Identity verification during account opening is the foundation for building trust between consumers and businesses. Consumers expect a seamless and convenient experience, and with the ease and optionality of online banking, are willing to look for alternatives that offer less friction. According to Experian research, 92% of consumers feel it's important for the businesses they deal with online to identify or recognize them on a repeated basis accurately, but only 16% have high confidence that this is happening. The disconnect between consumers’ expectations for online identity verification and the digital experiences they encounter is leading to reduced satisfaction and increased abandonment during new account opening processes. According to recent research by Experian, 38% of consumers surveyed considered ending a new account opening mid-way through the process due to poor experience. In addition, the same research found that nearly one-fifth of consumers had moved their business elsewhere because of this. Amidst the quest for convenience lies a pressing concern: ensuring the integrity of accounts being opened and protecting against fraud. Businesses continue to experience increasing fraud losses, Juniper Research forecasts that merchant losses from online payment fraud will exceed $362 billion globally between 2023 and 2028, with losses of $91 billion alone in 2028. Identity verification serves as the first line of defense in protecting both financial institutions and consumers. By verifying the identities of individuals before granting them access to services, businesses can mitigate the risk of identity theft, account takeover, and other forms of fraud. Four capabilities to consider when building out an identity verification strategy Personally Identifiable Information (PII) dataComparing consumer input data to a comprehensive data set helps effectively validate the consumer without disrupting customer experience. Details like name, address, date of birth, and social security number provide valuable identity information to verify identities quickly and accurately. Identity graphUsing an identity graph leveraging advanced analytics and data linking techniques helps prevent synthetic IDs from getting through. By mapping relationships between identity attributes, you can easily identify patterns and connections within the data and detect anomalies or inaccuracies in the information provided. Alternative data“Thin file” consumers are often rejected due to a lack of traditional data. Using alternative data like phone ownership and email data helps not only verify that the identity is real but also improves coverage, so you are not rejecting good customers. Document verificationHaving a document verification provider that seamlessly integrates into your identity verification workflow is essential for robust identity verification. Validating good users early in the account opening process helps keep fraudsters out so good users are not subject to stringent identity checks later on during onboarding. Next steps A strong identity verification process builds trust by demonstrating a commitment to protecting and safeguarding consumer data. A proper identity verification workflow would minimize the impact of friction for consumers and help organizations manage fraud and regulatory compliance by examining specific business needs on a case-by-case basis. Identifying the right mix of capabilities through analytics and feedback while utilizing the best data reduces the cost of manual verification and helps onboard good customers faster. Learn more Research conducted in March 2024 by Experian in North America

A tale of synthetic ID fraud Synthetic ID fraud is an increasing issue and affects everyone, including high-profile individuals. A notable case from Ohio involved Warren Hayes, who managed to get an official ID card in the name of “Santa Claus” from the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles. He also registered a vehicle, opened a bank account, and secured an AAA membership under this name, listing his address as 1 Noel Drive, North Pole, USA. This elaborate ruse unraveled after Hayes, disguised as Santa, got into a minor car accident. When the police requested identification, Hayes presented his Santa Claus ID. He was subsequently charged under an Ohio law prohibiting the use of fictitious names. However, the court—presided over by Judge Thomas Gysegem—dismissed the charge, arguing that because Hayes had used the ID for over 20 years, "Santa Claus" was effectively a "real person" in the eyes of the law. The judge’s ruling raised eyebrows and left one glaring question unanswered: how could official documents in such a blatantly fictitious name go undetected for two decades? From Santa Claus to synthetic IDs: the modern-day threat The Hayes case might sound like a holiday comedy, but it highlights a significant issue that organizations face today: synthetic identity fraud. Unlike traditional identity theft, synthetic ID fraud does not rely on stealing an existing identity. Instead, fraudsters combine real and fictitious details to create a new “person.” Think of it as an elaborate game of make-believe, where the stakes are millions of dollars. These synthetic identities can remain under the radar for years, building credit profiles, obtaining loans, and committing large-scale fraud before detection. Just as Hayes tricked the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, fraudsters exploit weak verification processes to pass as legitimate individuals. According to KPMG, synthetic identity fraud bears a staggering $6 billion cost to banks.To perpetrate the crime, malicious actors leverage a combination of real and fake information to fabricate a synthetic identity, also known as a “Frankenstein ID.” The financial industry classifies various types of synthetic identity fraud. Manipulated Synthetics – A real person’s data is modified to create variations of that identity. Frankenstein Synthetics – The data represents a combination of multiple real people. Manufactured Synthetics – The identity is completely synthetic. How organizations can combat synthetic ID fraud A multifaceted approach to detecting synthetic identities that integrates advanced technologies can form the foundation of a sound fraud prevention strategy: Advanced identity verification tools: Use AI-powered tools that cross-check identity attributes across multiple data points to flag inconsistencies. Behavioral analytics: Monitor user behaviors to detect anomalies that may indicate synthetic identities. For instance, a newly created account applying for a large loan with perfect credit is a red flag. Digital identity verification: Implement digital onboarding processes that include online identity verification with real-time document verification. Users can upload government-issued IDs and take selfies to confirm their identity. Collaboration and data sharing: Organizations can share insights about suspected synthetic identities to prevent fraudsters from exploiting gaps between industries. Ongoing employee training: Ensure frontline staff can identify suspicious applications and escalate potential fraud cases. Regulatory support: Governments and regulators can help by standardizing ID issuance processes and requiring more stringent checks. Closing thoughts The tale of Santa Claus’ stolen identity may be entertaining, but it underscores the need for vigilance against synthetic ID fraud. As we move into an increasingly digital age, organizations must stay ahead of fraudsters by leveraging technology, training, and collaboration. Because while the idea of Spiderman or Catwoman walking into your branch may seem amusing, the financial and reputational cost of synthetic ID fraud is no laughing matter. Learn more

We are squarely in the holiday shopping season. From the flurry of promotional emails to the endless shopping lists, there are many to-dos and even more opportunities for financial institutions at this time of year. The holiday shopping season is not just a peak period for consumer spending; it’s also a critical time for financial institutions to strategize, innovate, and drive value. According to the National Retail Federation, U.S. holiday retail sales are projected to approach $1 trillion in 2024, , and with an ever-evolving consumer behavior landscape, financial institutions need actionable strategies to stand out, secure loyalty, and drive growth during this period of heightened spending. Download our playbook: "How to prepare for the Holiday Shopping Season" Here’s how financial institutions can capitalize on the holiday shopping season, including key insights, actionable strategies, and data-backed trends. 1. Understand the holiday shopping landscape Key stats to consider: U.S. consumers spent $210 billion online during the 2022 holiday season, according to Adobe Analytics, marking a 3.5% increase from 2021. Experian data reveals that 31% of all holiday purchases in 2022 occurred in October, highlighting the extended shopping season. Cyber Week accounted for just 8% of total holiday spending, according to Experian’s Holiday Spending Trends and Insights Report, emphasizing the importance of a broad, season-long strategy. What this means for financial institutions: Timing is crucial. Your campaigns are already underway if you get an early start, and it’s critical to sustain them through December. Focus beyond Cyber Week. Develop long-term engagement strategies to capture spending throughout the season. 2. Leverage Gen Z’s growing spending power With an estimated $360 billion in disposable income, according to Bloomberg, Gen Z is a powerful force in the holiday market​. This generation values personalized, seamless experiences and is highly active online. Strategies to capture Gen Z: Offer digital-first solutions that enhance the holiday shopping journey, such as interactive portals or AI-powered customer support. Provide loyalty incentives tailored to this demographic, like cash-back rewards or exclusive access to services. Learn more about Gen Z in our State of Gen Z Report. To learn more about all generations' projected consumer spending, read new insights from Experian here, including 45% of Gen X and 52% of Boomers expect their spending to remain consistent with last year. 3. Optimize pre-holiday strategies Portfolio Review: Assess consumer behavior trends and adjust risk models to align with changing economic conditions. Identify opportunities to engage dormant accounts or offer tailored credit lines to existing customers. Actionable tactics: Expand offerings. Position your products and services with promotional campaigns targeting high-value segments. Personalize experiences. Use advanced analytics to segment clients and craft offers that resonate with their holiday needs or anticipate their possible post-holiday needs. 4. Ensure top-of-mind awareness During the holiday shopping season, competition to be the “top of wallet” is fierce. Experian’s data shows that 58% of high spenders shop evenly across the season, while 31% of average spenders do most of their shopping in December​. Strategies for success: Early engagement: Launch educational campaigns to empower credit education and identity protection during this period of increased transactions. Loyalty programs: Offer incentives, such as discounts or rewards, that encourage repeat engagement during the season. Omnichannel presence: Utilize digital, email, and event marketing to maintain visibility across platforms. 5. Combat fraud with multi-layered strategies The holiday shopping season sees an increase in fraud, with card testing being the number one attack vector in the U.S. according to Experian’s 2024 Identity and Fraud Study. Fraudulent activity such as identity theft and synthetic IDs can also escalate​. Fight tomorrow’s fraud today: Identity verification: Use advanced fraud detection tools, like Experian’s Ascend Fraud Sandbox, to validate accounts in real-time. Monitor dormant accounts: Watch these accounts with caution and assess for potential fraud risk. Strengthen cybersecurity: Implement multi-layered strategies, including behavioral analytics and artificial intelligence (AI), to reduce vulnerabilities. 6. Post-holiday follow-up: retain and manage risk Once the holiday rush is over, the focus shifts to managing potential payment stress and fostering long-term relationships. Post-holiday strategies: Debt monitoring: Keep an eye on debt-to-income and debt-to-limit ratios to identify clients at risk of defaulting. Customer support: Offer tailored assistance programs for clients showing signs of financial stress, preserving goodwill and loyalty. Fraud checks: Watch for first-party fraud and unusual return patterns, which can spike in January. 7. Anticipate consumer trends in the New Year The aftermath of the holidays often reveals deeper insights into consumer health: Rising credit balances: January often sees an uptick in outstanding balances, highlighting the need for proactive credit management. Shifts in spending behavior: According to McKinsey, consumers are increasingly cautious post-holiday, favoring savings and value-based spending. What this means for financial institutions: Align with clients’ needs for financial flexibility. The holiday shopping season is a time that demands precise planning and execution. Financial institutions can maximize their impact during this critical period by starting early, leveraging advanced analytics, and maintaining a strong focus on fraud prevention. And remember, success in the holiday season extends beyond December. Building strong relationships and managing risk ensures a smooth transition into the new year, setting the stage for continued growth. Ready to optimize your strategy? Contact us for tailored recommendations during the holiday season and beyond. Download the Holiday Shopping Season Playbook

Finding a balance between providing secure financial services and user-friendly experiences is no easy task. One of the biggest hurdles? Ensuring identity authentication is robust and reliable. Let's walk through the essentials of identity authentication, its importance, and what effective solutions look like. What is identity authentication? Identity authentication is the process of proving that an individual is who they claim to be. Unlike identity verification, which simply confirms that the provided identity information is valid, identity authentication goes a step further by ensuring that the person presenting the information is indeed its rightful owner. At its core, identity authentication relies on various methods to verify identities. These methods can range from simple password checks to more sophisticated technologies like biometrics and adaptive authentication. The goal is to create multiple layers of security that make it difficult for unauthorized users to gain access. Types of authentication methods Several types of identity authentication methods are used today. Passwords and PINs are the most basic forms, but they are increasingly being supplemented or replaced by more advanced solutions like multi-factor authentication (MFA) , biometric scans, and knowledge-based authentication (KBA). Each method has its advantages and limitations, making it crucial for financial institutions to choose the right mix. Authentication vs. verification While often used interchangeably, identity verification and identity authentication serve different purposes. Identity verification solutions confirm that the provided identity information matches public records, whereas identity authentication solutions ensure that the person presenting the information is its true owner. Identity verification is typically a one-time process conducted at the beginning of a relationship, such as when opening a new bank account. On the other hand, identity authentication is an ongoing process, ensuring that each login or transaction is carried out by a legitimate user. Though different, these processes are crucial for financial institutions. They work together to provide a robust security framework that minimizes the risk of fraud while offering a seamless user experience. READ: Learn how to overcome online identity verification challenges. Why it's important for financial institutions The importance of identity authentication for financial institutions cannot be overstated. With the rise of cyber threats and sophisticated fraud schemes like synthetic identity fraud, robust identity authentication measures are more critical than ever. Enhancing security. Effective authentication significantly enhances the security of financial transactions. By preventing unauthorized access, sensitive information and financial assets are safeguarded. Advanced solutions like multi-factor authentication solutions add extra layers of protection. Building trust with customers. Robust authentication also helps build trust with customers. When users feel confident that their accounts and personal information are secure, they are more likely to engage with the institution and utilize its services. Regulatory compliance. For financial institutions, compliance with regulatory standards is paramount. Many regulations now mandate strong identity authentication measures to protect against fraud and ensure the security of financial transactions. What to look for in an identity authentication solution The ideal solution should offer a balance between security, user experience, and cost-effectiveness. Adaptive authentication solutions use machine learning algorithms to assess the risk level of each transaction. This allows for a dynamic approach to authentication, where additional checks are only required when necessary. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) solutions add an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide multiple forms of identification. This could include something they know (password), something they have (smartphone), and something they are (biometric data). Knowledge-based authentication (KBA) solutions ask users to answer questions based on their personal information. This method is particularly useful for verifying identities during online transactions and account recoveries. Experian’s Knowledge IQSM offers KBA with over 70 credit- and noncredit-based questions to help you authenticate consumers by asking noninvasive questions that can be answered quickly by the true consumer. Comprehensive identity solutions take a holistic approach by integrating various methods and technologies. Experian’s identity solutions offer a range of services, from risk-based authentication to automated identity verification, ensuring comprehensive protection. Importance of user experience. While security is paramount, user experience should not be overlooked. The ideal identity authentication solution should be seamless and user-friendly, minimizing friction during the authentication process. READ: By adopting a consumer-centric approach to digital identity, organizations can offer customers a better experience while minimizing risk. How Experian can help Identity authentication is a critical component of modern financial institutions. By implementing robust and user-friendly solutions, organizations can enhance security, build customer trust, and comply with regulatory standards. Whether it's through adaptive authentication, multi-factor authentication, or knowledge-based authentication, the goal is to create a secure and seamless experience for users. Ready to take your identity strategy to the next level? Explore Experian’s identity solutions today and discover how they can help your institution achieve its security and user experience goals. Learn more This article includes content created by an AI language model and is intended to provide general information.

For auto dealerships, the roar of engines and the clink of deals used to be the only sounds associated with financial risk. But in today's world, a silent threat lurks in every showroom: identity fraud. This insidious crime is costing dealerships millions, leaving a trail of financial and reputational wreckage in its wake. The Numbers Don't Lie: Reports of the impact of identity fraud on auto dealerships are becoming more common as the industry leans more heavily on digital retailing. According to the Federal Trade Commission, nearly 80,000 cars were stolen in 2023 via fraud. Who's Behind the Wheel? The perpetrators of fraud come in all shapes and sizes. While classic ID theft with stolen documents still exists, the real menace lies in synthetic identities: Frankenstein accounts cobbled together from stolen data and fake documents. These sophisticated creations can fool even the most vigilant dealership, resulting in high-value car loans taken out on non-existent people. The Ripple Effect: The consequences of identity fraud extend far beyond lost cars. Dealerships face: Financial losses: Wrecked credit and repossessions add up quickly. Operational headaches: Investigations and legal proceedings are time-consuming and costly. Reputational damage: News of fraud breaches trust and scares away potential customers. So, What Can Dealerships Do? Arming themselves with the right tools and practices is crucial. Here are some key steps: Invest in identity verification technology: Advanced document scanning, and facial recognition can crack down on fake licenses. Experian's Fraud ProtectTM leverages cutting-edge technology to compare licenses to selfies to confirm consumers are who they say they are AND their license is valid. Train staff on fraud detection: Fraud Protect takes the challenge out of identifying fraud in a very simple way. There is no hardware or extensive training. It is as simple as sharing a URL and reading the results in your CRM. Implement stringent verification procedures: Fraud Protect allows dealers to implement fraud identification measures in a frictionless manner. As simple as one-time passcodes, selfies, and taking pictures, the consumer experience is very smooth.  For automotive dealers, the results are returned to their CRM within a few moments including all the information they need for proper decisioning. Fighting Back, One Mile at a Time: Identity fraud is a growing problem, but auto dealerships are not powerless. By raising awareness, investing in security, and embracing vigilance, dealers can protect themselves and drive this silent threat off the road. With Fraud Protect, dealers can verify documents and identity in a frictionless manner that does not interrupt the sales process. Learn more about auto fraud prevention solutions available or contact us to get started.   *This article includes content created by an AI language model and is intended to provide general information.

  Auto dealerships may sell dreams of open roads and freedom, but unfortunately, they also attract a different kind of customer: the identity thief. With high-value transactions and access to sensitive personal information, auto dealerships are prime targets for various fraudulent schemes. So, buckle up as we explore the most common types of identity fraud impacting dealerships and how to keep your wheels safe. Four common fraud schemes dealers need to be aware of 1. Third-Party Identity Fraud (Stolen Identities): Hijacking the Identity Highway This method doesn't involve creating new identities; it steals existing ones. Thieves steal personal information, often through data breaches or phishing scams, and use it to apply for auto loans under the victim's name. The dealership unwittingly approves the loan, leaving the real person saddled with the debt and a ruined credit score. 2. Synthetic Identity (Fabricated Credentials): Frankenstein Fraud on the Fast Lane Think of synthetic identity fraud as identity theft with a twist. Criminals combine real and fake information, like stolen Social Security numbers and fabricated addresses, to create entirely new personas. These fabricated identities then build clean credit histories, allowing them to qualify for high-value loans like car financing. By the time the dealership realizes the fraud, the car, and the fake persona have vanished. 3. First Party: No Way Will I Pay This method doesn't involve creating new identities; rather it is when a person knowingly misrepresents their identity or gives false information for financial or material gain. Fraudsters often have no plans to pay for their vehicle. 4. Document Fraud: Paper Trails of Deception Fraudsters can also manufacture fake or altered documents like driver's licenses, proof of income and employment verification. These forged documents create a veneer of legitimacy, allowing them to bypass dealership verification checks and secure loans based on fabricated information. Four ways dealerships can keep their brakes on fraud 1. Robust verification: Implementing multi-factor authentication, cross-referencing information with reliable sources, and verifying documents with advanced technology can significantly reduce the risk of deception. Fraud Protect™ from Experian Automotive leverages license scanning and selfie capture to verify identity. Dealers can find the true person and verify the activity through device, behavior, and step-up services. 2. Employee vigilance: Training staff to identify suspicious behavior and report potential fraud attempts can create a strong internal defense system. Fraud Protect fits within your current systems and processes. The software integrates with your CRM and does not require heavy software training or any additional hardware simplifying employee usage. 3. Secure data: Investing in data security measures like encryption and access controls can significantly deter hackers and minimize the damage from data breaches. Fraud Protect leverages Experian’s world-class data to handle the customer relationship carefully and detect errors and discrepancies. 4. Partnerships: Collaborating with credit bureaus, law enforcement agencies and fraud prevention systems can provide valuable insights and resources for fighting fraud. Experian is the world’s leading information services company. Fraud Protect from Experian Automotive offers a unique partnership for dealers through seamless CRM integration. This simple process makes multiple levels of risk identification quick and efficient for busy buyers. By acknowledging the various forms of identity fraud and implementing proactive measures, dealerships can protect themselves and their consumers from the impact of identity fraud. Fraud Protect empowers dealers with our leading fraud, identity and verification capabilities, integrated within your unique workflows. Whether on your website, leveraged before test drives, initiating out-of-state & and remote closings, or before contracting, Fraud Protect quickly uncovers potential fraud. The entire process is a quick and painless way to address risk while establishing customer trust. Take the first step in protecting profits and preventing fraud by visiting our auto fraud prevention solutions webpage.