Identity Theft Warning Signs and Prevention Tips

What’s Stolen and How It’s Used 

These scammers are after personal and financial information. This can include your name, Social Security number, debit and credit card numbers, your banking information, and other sensitive and identifying information.  

Once they have gained access to this information, they can use it to impersonate their victims for financial gain or benefit. The identity thieves may open new credit cards, lines of credit, apply for loans, or make unauthorized purchases, all under their victim’s name. In most cases, the victim may not realize what is happening until the damage has already been done. 

Common Methods and Signs to Look Out For 

There are many ways that identity thieves can try to access your information. Some of the most common methods include phishing scams, hacking, skimming devices placed on ATM’s or card readers, and stolen mail.  

Signs that your identity may have been stolen can appear in various ways. Stay alert and be on the lookout for unfamiliar bills or charges, services you didn’t request, or errors in your credit report. Missing mail, notifications about new accounts you don’t recognize, or being denied a loan or credit line you never applied for are also red flags to look out for.