On this edition of #FraudFriday we are going to discuss Identity Theft and measures you can take to prevent becoming a victim. First off, what is identity theft and how does it even happen? Criminals can steal your identify by acquiring different pieces of information about you such as name, address, credit card/bank information and social security number. After obtaining this info they can attempt to make purchases on your behalf, open new credit accounts, enroll in various services, apply for employment, gain access to your tax refunds, gain medical care and pose as you in the event they are arrested! While identify theft is a scary topic there are many ways in which you can take action to keep you and your loved ones safe!
- If you believe your information may have been compromised, you can place a credit freeze on your reports. By freezing your credit report, no one can apply or open any new account with your information. These freezes can be made by contacting Experian, TransUnion and Equifax.
- Any documents that contain your personal information such as social security number, banking info, full name, date of birth and address should always be kept confidential and secure. If you are to dispose of any documents make sure that they are properly shredded or destroyed. NEVER share your personal information on the phone with anyone that contacts you indirectly.
- Use strong password and phrases to keep your online accounts secure.
- Place credit freezes on infants and young children to prevent any theft from occurring while their credit activity is being unmonitored.
By taking these measures, you can help mitigate the risk of identity theft. These precautions can also help you identify if you have been targeted or if anyone has already compromised your accounts. Review all bills and bank statements to ensure that all transactions and amounts are correct. Often times victims will begin receiving bills for accounts or services that they have never signed up for. If you are suspicious of fraud, you can review your credit report and then take necessary actions. If you are sure that you have been the victim of a fraud attack, be sure to contact the companies where the fraud has occurred to have them freeze the fact accounts and let them know that you have been the victim of identity theft.
To request your credit reports: www.annualcreditreport.com.
To contact the Credit Bureaus:
- Experian.com/help | 888-EXPERIAN (888-397-3742)
- Equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services | 800-685-1111
- TransUnion.com/credit-help | 888-909-8872
For more information on prevention and reporting you can visit: IdentifyTheft.gov
