Identity Theft

Be on guard against thieves who constantly seek new victims.

Alert behavior can help you avoid trouble

Identity theft is an all-too-common crimes that involves someone using your personal or financial information without your consent. You can monitor activity by ordering a free credit report every year.

Pay Attention to Warning Signs

Credit card and account statements are delayed in the mail
You're denied credit for no reason
You receive bills for purchases you never made
Collection agencies try to collect on debts you didn't incur
Credit reports show new, unauthorized accounts

Take Swift Action if You're a Victim

Place a fraud alert on your credit file by contacting a major credit reporting bureau (Trans Union, Experian, or Equifax), which will then notify the other bureaus
Alert affected businesses over the phone and in writing, and close tampered accounts or those opened without your consent
File a police report and request a copy for yourself because you may need it for businesses requiring proof of the crime
Report the crime to the Federal Trade Commission