Identity Theft & Internet Crime
Identity theft happens when someone illegally obtains your personal information, such as your name, address, Social Security number, or date of birth, and uses it without permission. Criminals can use your identity to:
- Open credit cards or bank accounts
- Drain existing bank or retirement accounts
- Apply for loans
- Obtain utility services or government benefits
- Commit other forms of fraud
No one is completely immune to identity theft, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself and respond quickly if it happens to you.
Warning Signs of Identity Theft
You may be a victim if you notice:
- Missing bank or credit card statements
- Unexpected bills from unknown creditors
- Denied credit without reason
- Calls from collection agencies for unfamiliar accounts
How to Protect Yourself
Personal Information Security
- Ask how your personal info is used by banks, doctors, and employers
- Don't carry your Social Security card or birth certificate
- Never give personal info over the phone or the Internet unless you initiated the contact
- Shred sensitive documents before discarding
Financial Security
- Review your credit report annually
- Check statements regularly for suspicious charges
- Store credit cards and financial records in a secure place
- Shred pre-approvals and receipts with personal info
- Use strong, unique passwords (avoid using your mother's maiden name)
- Mail checks from a secure location, not your home mailbox
Reduce Risk
- Cancel unused credit cards
- Carry only what you need
- Opt out of pre-approved credit offers: 1-888-5-OPT-OUT
What To Do if I'm a Victim
Document Everything
- Keep detailed records of all phone calls and letters
- Follow up every phone call with written confirmation
Notify Creditors & Banks
- Request new account numbers and monitor statements
- Under the Fair Credit Billing Act, your liability is limited to $50 for fraudulent charges
File a Police Report
- Provide all relevant documentation
- Request a copy of the report to provide to financial institutions
Report to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
File a complaint online
Alert Credit Reporting Agencies
Contact the fraud departments of the three major bureaus:
- Equifax: 800-525-6285
- Experian: 888-397-3742
- TransUnion: 800-680-7289
Ask to place a fraud alert on your credit file. Victims are entitled to a free credit report and may request additional reports every 90 days to monitor for new fraudulent activity.
Notify Utility Companies
- Ask them to monitor or cancel any unauthorized accounts
- If necessary, contact your State Public Utility Commission for further support
Internet Crime Complaint Center
- To report Internet-based fraud or cybercrimes, file a complaint with the
