What if identity theft

This scam is typically known as phishing , where fraudsters will contact you and try to get you to give them information. Finally, never click links in emails asking you to log in, and never download attachments from unknown emails. We love to share information on social media, but you should be careful about posting personal information.

If there is, we can help you query it with the lender. Destroying or shredding unwanted mail is the best way to stop a fraudster getting their hands on your personal details. Make sure your home WiFi has a secure password set up. Recovering from Identity Theft. Print Text size Listen icon. What is identity theft? They could use your: name and address credit card or bank account numbers Social Security number phone or utility account numbers medical insurance numbers How will I know if my identity was stolen?

Here are ways you can tell that someone is using your information: You see withdrawals from your bank account that you cannot explain. You do not get your bills or other mail. You get bills for utilities or medical services you did not use. Debt collectors call you about debts that are not yours. You find strange accounts or charges on your credit report. What is IdentityTheft.

You: answer questions about what happened to you put in your name, address, and other information get your Identity Theft Report get a recovery plan created just for you You also can create an account. What is an Identity Theft Report? What is a credit report? Your credit report is a summary of your credit history.

It lists: your name, address, and Social Security number your credit cards your loans how much money you owe if you pay your bills on time or late Who creates my credit report? There are three main credit bureaus: Equifax Experian Transunion What is a fraud alert? There are a few kinds of fraud alerts. They are all free: Initial fraud alert — lasts for one year. Use this if you think someone stole your identity. Extended fraud alert — lasts for seven years.

Use this if you know someone stole your identity. Active duty alert — lasts up to one year. Use this if you are in the military and deployed. Read more. Here are steps you can take to help protect yourself from identity theft. What can you do to keep your personal info secure? Are identity protection services worth the cost? What about credit freezes? The site provides victims with a personal recovery plan, walking through each step to take.

It also provides pre-filed letters and forms to send to credit bureaus, businesses, and debt collectors. Please enable JavaScript in your web browser; otherwise some parts of this site might not work properly. The identity thief may use your information to apply for credit, file taxes, or get medical services. These acts can damage your credit status, and cost you time and money to restore your good name.

You could be affected by ID theft if you receive:. Anyone can experience identity theft. Children and seniors are both vulnerable to ID theft. Child ID theft may go undetected for many years.

Seniors often share their personal information with doctors and caregivers.