Identity theft is top-of-mind for 3 in 5 Americans this year

Less than half of Americans have checked their credit or debit card statements to ensure that the charges match their actual purchases. (Photo: Shutterstock)

The pandemic has been a boon not only for online retailers but also for identity thieves. Law enforcement has reported a big spike in online scams during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Gregory J. Anton, chairman of the American Institute of CPAs National CPA Financial Literacy Commission.

As a result, 60% of Americans believe it is likely that identity theft will cause them a financial loss in the next year, according to new research conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of AICPA.