Do you know how to protect yourself?

  • Published
Federal Trade Commission --  With the rise in identity theft nationwide, people need to know how to protect themselves. Before a person can protect himself, he needs to know what to protect himself from.

Credit card fraud:
· They may open new credit card accounts in your name. When they use the cards and don't pay the bills, the delinquent accounts appear on your credit report.
· They may change the billing address on your credit card so that you no longer receive bills, and then run up charges on your account. Because your bills are now sent to a different address, it may be some time before you realize there's a problem. 

Phone or utilities fraud:
· They may open a new phone or wireless account in your name, or run up charges on your existing account.
· They may use your name to get utility services like electricity, heating, or cable television. 

Bank/finance fraud:
· They may create counterfeit checks using your name or account number.
· They may open a bank account in your name and write bad checks.
· They may clone your ATM or debit card and make electronic withdrawals, draining your accounts.
· They may take out a loan in your name. 

Government documents fraud:
· They may get a driver's license or official ID card issued in your name but with their picture.
· They may use your name and Social Security Number to get government benefits.
· They may file a fraudulent tax return using your information. 

Other fraud:
· They may get a job using your Social Security Number.
· They may rent a house or get medical services using your name.
· They may give your personal information to police during an arrest. If they don't show up for their court date, a warrant for arrest is issued in your name.

How can you find out if your identity was stolen?

The best way to find out is to monitor your accounts and bank statements each month, and check your credit report on a regular basis. If you check your credit report regularly, you may be able to limit the damage caused by identity theft. Unfortunately, many consumers learn that their identity has been stolen after some damage has been done.
· You may find out when bill collection agencies contact you for overdue debts you never incurred.
· You may find out when you apply for a mortgage or car loan and learn that problems with your credit history are holding up the loan.
· You may find out when you get something in the mail about an apartment you never rented, a house you never bought or a job you never held.

What should you do if your identity is stolen?

Filing a police report, checking your credit reports, notifying creditors, and disputing any unauthorized transactions are some of the steps you can take immediately to restore your good name.

Learn more about identity theft at ftc.gov.