Synthetic or ghost identities. If you’re a property manager, it’s important to be on the lookout for them. Tenants with synthetic ID’s often fail to pay rent, damage property, and cause other problems for landlords. So, what is a synthetic ID? Keep reading to find out.
What is a Synthetic ID?
A synthetic identity is a combination of real and fake information that’s used to create a new identity. The fake information can be anything from a made-up name to a fabricated Social Security number. The real information is usually stolen from unsuspecting victims, like children or the elderly. Once the Synthetic ID is created, it can be used to open new lines of credit, apply for loans, and rent apartments—basically, anything that requires an ID in order to do.
How Can You Spot a Synthetic ID?
There are several things that you can look for if you suspect that a tenant is using a synthetic identity. One of the first things you should do is run a background check. If the tenant has multiple addresses listed, that’s a red flag. Another thing to look for is inconsistency in the information provided—for example, if their birthdate doesn’t match up with the one on their driver’s license. Finally, if the information on their application doesn’t match up with what you find when you search for them online, that’s another sign that they may be using a synthetic identity.
Conclusion: If you’re a property manager, it’s important to be on the lookout for synthetic identities—also known as ghost identities. Tenants with synthetic ID’s often fail to pay rent, damage property, and cause other problems for landlords. There are several things that you can look for if you suspect that a tenant is using a synthetic identity, like running a background check or checking for inconsistency in the information provided. If you have any suspicions that a tenant may be using a synthetic identity, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and investigate further