Identity Theft

What is identity theft?

Identity theft happens when someone uses your personal data to impersonate you, typically using that information to steal from you. Identity thieves may drain your bank and investment accounts, open new credit lines, file unemployment claims, steal your tax refund, use your insurance information to get medical treatments, or give police your name and address when they are arrested.

What are the signs of identity theft?

It’s important that you pay close attention to your finances to recognize the signs of identity theft. Here are signs you might be the victim of identity theft:

• You notice unrecognized withdrawals from your bank account.
• You see charges on your credit or debit card that you did not make.
• You received statements from an unknown credit card.
• Debt collectors have called you about debts that are not yours.
• You have received notification of a data breach.
• Despite good credit, a loan or credit card application of yours was denied.
• You have received suspicious emails, text messages, or phone calls asking for personal information.
• When you tried to file your taxes, there was already one submitted by someone else.
• You have received a bill for a medical appointment, tests, or even medication that you do not recognize.

How do I protect my identity?

There are several best practices you can follow to avoid identity theft and protect yourself from fraud.

Monitor your credit reports and scores. Check to be sure that accounts are being reported properly and watch for signs of fraud, like accounts you don't recognize. You can access your credit report for free at www.annualcreditreport.com. You are entitled to one free credit report from each of the three credit reporting bureaus a year.

Monitor your financial statements. Review financial transactions carefully and correct any errors by contacting your financial institution promptly.

Practice password safety. Log into your email and online banking accounts regularly and change your passwords every few months. Remember to use strong passwords that are difficult to guess.

Be cautious online. Do not click on links or download files from unknown or suspicious senders. Become familiar with red flags that indicate phishing scams. Try not to use public Wi-Fi to receive or send sensitive documents or access online bank accounts.

Secure your documents. Keep your sensitive information in a safe place. Don’t carry your Social Security card with you. Remember to shred sensitive documents once you no longer need them; do not discard or recycle them.

Be aware of your surroundings. Cover the ATM keypad when entering your PIN and keep an eye out for “shoulder surfers” in public spaces who may be watching you key in your phone’s passcode or your credit card information.

If you believe you have been the victim of identity theft, here’s how to report suspicious activity.