What Is Identity Theft?

• Occurs when someone uses your personal data (name, SSN, birthdate) to impersonate you and commit fraud.
• Common uses: draining accounts, opening credit lines, stealing tax refunds, accessing medical services, or committing crimes under your name.
• Over 1 million reports of identity theft were filed with the FTC in 2023.

7 Types of Identity Theft and Warning Signs

• Credit Identity Theft
• What it is: Criminals open credit lines in your name.
• Warning signs: Unexpected credit score changes, unrecognized accounts, debt collection notices.

• Prevention: Freeze your credit.

• Child Identity Theft

• What it is: Criminals use a child’s identity for credit applications.
• Warning signs: Credit card offers for your child, calls about late payments or debts.

• Prevention: Freeze your child’s credit.

• Synthetic Identity Theft

• What it is: Fake identities created using your SSN combined with other fictitious details.
• Warning signs: Issues freezing a child’s credit or unrecognized credit activity.

• Prevention: Monitor your child’s SSN usage.

• Taxpayer Identity Theft

• What it is: Fraudulent tax filings under your SSN to claim refunds.
• Warning signs: Inability to e-file or unexpected IRS notices.

• Prevention: File taxes early and use identity protection PINs.

• Medical Identity Theft

• What it is: Using your identity to access medical treatments.
• Warning signs: Unrecognized insurance claims or benefit statements.

• Prevention: Monitor insurance claims and inform your provider of potential fraud.

• Account Takeover

• What it is: Criminals gain control of your financial accounts.
• Warning signs: Notifications of password changes or unknown transactions.

• Prevention: Enable account alerts and two-factor authentication.

• Criminal Identity Theft

• What it is: Criminals use your identity during arrests or investigations.
• Warning signs: Being detained unexpectedly or denied employment due to background issues.
• Prevention: Regularly check background reports.

How Identity Theft Happens

• Lost Wallet: Avoid carrying SSN cards; securely store sensitive information.
• Mailbox Theft: Use secure mailboxes and USPS Informed Delivery.
• Public Wi-Fi: Use VPNs for sensitive activities.
• Data Breaches: Assume your data is exposed; monitor accounts regularly.
• SIM Card Swaps: Set up account PINs with cellular providers.
• Phishing/Spoofing: Verify emails and calls independently using official contact information.
• Skimming: Use chipped cards and pay inside gas stations.
• Phone Scams: Avoid sharing personal data over unsolicited calls.
• Shoulder Surfing: Be cautious when entering PINs or passwords in public.
• Malware: Avoid clicking on suspicious links or attachments.

Preventing Identity Theft: 11 Key Steps

• Freeze Your Credit: Block new credit accounts from being opened without your consent.
• Protect Your SSN: Only share when necessary and store it securely.
• Beware of Phishing: Verify communications independently.
• Use Strong Passwords: Employ a password manager and enable two-factor authentication.
• Set Up Alerts: Receive notifications for account activity.
• Secure Your Mailbox: Opt for lockable mailboxes and USPS Informed Delivery.
• Shred Documents: Dispose of sensitive documents securely.
• Use Digital Wallets: Encrypt transactions online and in-store.
• Protect Mobile Devices: Use secure apps and strong device passwords.
• Monitor Credit Reports: Regularly review for unauthorized activity via AnnualCreditReport.com.
• Review Statements: Check financial and medical statements for suspicious activity.

How to Report Identity Theft

• Start at IdentityTheft.gov for personalized recovery plans.
• Notify your financial institutions, local police, and the IRS (800-908-4490 for tax-related theft).
• Keep detailed records of all interactions and correspondence.

What Happens After Reporting Identity Theft?

• Credit card/debit issuers typically replace compromised cards.
• Resolution timelines vary depending on the type of identity theft (e.g., tax-related cases take longer).
• Maintain detailed notes and follow the recovery steps provided.

Identity Theft Protection Services

• Services like IdentityForce, IDShield, and LifeLock monitor for data breaches and assist with recovery.
• Before purchasing, check for any existing benefits through employers or credit accounts.
• Choose a service that aligns with your budget and specific needs.

Stay vigilant and proactive to safeguard your personal information!

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