Identity Theft

How to Detect if Your Identity has Been Stolen 

  • Incorrect information on your credit report
  • Bills for items you did not buy
  • Unexpected withdrawals 
  • Debt collection calls for accounts you did not open
  • Denials of loan applications
  • Medical statements with charges that you do not recognize
  • Unexpected change of address

How to Report Identity Theft

If your identity is stolen, contact: 

  • The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) online at or call 1-877-438-4338
  • The three major credit reporting agencies: ,
  • Your bank's fraud department.

Follow the steps in the

How Does Identity Theft Happen

Identity theft may happen several ways: by phone, online or in person. Some scenarios are:

  • Your wallet with credit cards, debit cards or an ID is stolen.
  • Your trash is picked at to get financial information, such as bank statements or tax information.
  • Skimmer devices at ATM machines, cash registers or fuel pumps to steal your bank information.
  • Fraudulent emails, texts, or phone calls.
  • Personal or financial information in online quizzes or surveys is stolen.
  • Your mail is stolen or opened.

How to Protect Yourself From Identity Theft

  • Do not share personal information if you don't need to — i.e., bank account number, Social Security Number (SSN) or date of birth.
  • Do not answer phone calls, texts, social media messages or emails from numbers or people you do not know.
  • Collect your mail daily and on your mail if you know you will be away from home.
  • Review your credit card and bank account statements routinely. 
  • Learn more about .
  • Store personal information, such as SSN, in a safe space. If you can, do not carry it in your wallet. 
  • If getting rid of personal documents, shred them before throwing away or find a shredding service near you.
  • Learn about public Wi-Fi networks.
  • Check your .

Watch


Read

  •  — FTC Consumer Advice
  •  — FTC Consumer Advice

Source:  — USA.gov

 

Disclaimer: These recommendations are being provided for informational purposes only; they do not constitute an endorsement or approval by the University of Missouri-Kansas City. The University of Missouri-Kansas City bears no responsibility for the accuracy, legality or content of the resources listed.