> You’ll need to answer some questions to verify your identity. These questions come from a public database dating back as far as 20 years.
Wait, I need to verify my identity by regurgitating public information about me? However PayPal scraped up that information, an attacker could as well. This is absolutely security theater.
I was the victim of identity theft in the 90s, and I often get questions based on the address, and fake credit accounts the thief opened. Super frustrating.
Similar scenario here. While my ex-wife and I were separated, pre-divorce, she thoughtfully applied for credit in my name and gave the address where she was living. Now I have to either choose to lie or fail this type of identity verification. I should really take the time to contact the credit bureaus and get it fixed.
I'm sure they are using the same type of database that the credit reporting companies provide. Not only does it often contain incorrect information, it sometimes asks me detailed financial questions about my adult siblings. How in the hell should I know what mortgage company my brother has used in the past? And it is NOT my job to contact him and find out so you can cover your ass with fake security theater.
Guess I am in trouble then if I ever get stuck into something like that. My 'public' information whenever I query it is a blend of at least 3 other people. Of which only one I know. One DB thinks I am married to my mother-in-law.
Wait, I need to verify my identity by regurgitating public information about me? However PayPal scraped up that information, an attacker could as well. This is absolutely security theater.