About Identity Theft
Identity theft occurs when your personal identifying information (name, social security number, or credit card number, etc.) is used by someone without your permission, to commit fraud or other crimes.
Identity theft is serious. Although some identity theft victims can put an end to their problems promptly, others spend a lot of time and money repairing damage to their good name and credit record. In some cases, consumers victimized by identity theft may lose out on job opportunities, or be denied loans because of negative information on their credit reports. In exceptional cases, they may even be arrested for crimes they did not commit.
DETER
You can minimize your risk of becoming a victim of identity theft and the potential damage by making it more difficult for identity thieves to access your personal information.
Protect your Social Security number
Treat your trash and mail carefully
Be cautious when using the Internet
Select intricate passwords
Verify a source before sharing information
Safeguard your purse and wallet
Store information in secure locations
DETECT
Stay alert for the signs of identity theft, which include the following:
Accounts you didn't open and debts on your accounts that you can't explain
Fraudulent or inaccurate information on your credit reports
Mail or bills that do not arrive as expected. A missing bill could mean an identity thief has taken over your account and changed your billing address to cover his tracks
Receiving unexpected credit cards that you didn't apply for
Being denied credit or being offered less favorable credit terms for no apparent reason
Receiving calls or letters regarding merchandise or services you didn't buy
Early detection of a potential identity theft can make a big difference. Keep an eye out for any suspicious activity by regularly monitoring your financial statements and your credit report.
DEFEND
If you are a victim of identity theft, the following four steps should be taken as soon as possible. A record should be kept with the details of your conversations and copies of all correspondence.
Place a fraud alert on your credit reports and review the reports carefully
Close any accounts that you believe have been tampered with or opened fraudulently.
File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.
File a police report.
Please visit these Identity Theft resources for more information.
Annual Credit Report
Federal Trade Commission – Identity Theft Site
Internet Crime Complaint Center
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