Identity Theft
Identity theft is when someone steals your personal information, such as a credit card number or Social Security number, and uses it for financial or other gains. For example, identity thieves might use your personal information to get medical treatment, apply for loans, or file taxes in your name. As a result, recovering credit can be difficult for the victim, affecting them in many ways, such as their ability to rent a house or apartment, apply for a credit card, or borrow money. It is also possible for victims to be held accountable for bills of accounts they did not open or for items they did not purchase.
Common Types of Identity Theft
● Credit/Debit Card Fraud: The act of someone else making a purchase using your credit card.
● Tax ID Theft: An IRS or state tax return is filed using your social security number.
● Medical ID Theft: When someone else uses your health insurance number to obtain medical services or sends your insurance company false bills.
● Driver's License Theft: Using your license, someone can buy items under your name and obtain other forms of identification containing their image. Clues Indicating Your Identity Has Been Stolen
● Unexpected changes to your credit score, or new accounts appear on your credit report.
● Credit card or bank account withdrawals you don't recognize have been made.
● You receive invoices for items you did not purchase.
● Bill collectors calling you on accounts you didn't open.
How Can You Prevent This?
● Make sure your Social Security number is safe and secure. Never leave it in your wallet or carry it anywhere unless you need it that day. Shred all documents with your Social Security number before throwing them away.
● Unless required, avoid disclosing personal information like your birth date or bank account number.
● To prevent personal information or credit applications from being stolen in your mailbox, bring your mail inside once you arrive home each day.
● Never download things from sites you don't trust, and install reputable antivirus and antispyware on your computer.
● Smartphones, wi-fi, and any other technology should be password-protected.
