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Identity Theft: How To Spot It, Then Stop It.

You know it's important to keep your personal information private and protected, but what if sneaky criminals are already one step ahead? If your scam-spotting senses are telling you something seems off – listen to them!
Here are some red flags that could indicate someone has your identity:
  • You get bills for purchases you didn’t make or medical services you didn’t receive.
  • You’re notified that a claim for unemployment’s been filed in your name.
  • You stop receiving bills or other mail.
  • Mysterious new accounts or inquiries show up on your credit report.
So, you have a hunch someone has your identity. Now what?
  • Contact the company being targeted (such as your financial institution, healthcare provider or IRS) to talk through the possible red flags you're seeing.
  • Submit an identity theft report with the Federal Trade Commission .
  • Get a copy of your (you get one free every year!). Look for any credit inquiries you didn’t authorize and confirm your personal and credit account information are accurate.
  • Place a free fraud alert on your credit report. Set this alert on all three credit bureaus’ websites (Equifax.com, Experian.com and TransUnion.com) to alert creditors you may be a victim of fraud so they’ll take extra steps to verify your identity before allowing credit. While a fraud alert stays on your report for a year, you can extend it to seven years if you want.
  • Freeze your credit. Remember, you can also set up a credit freeze at all three credit bureaus' websites. It helps stop fraudsters from opening credit in your name, and you can unfreeze it quickly anytime you do want to apply for credit.
Share these warning signs and tips with friends and family, so we can all stay vigilant and take action if fraud is suspected. If you think you've been a victim of identity theft, or you’ve given out your username, password, PIN or account info, contact your financial institution right away. Summit members, we're here to help you at 800-236-5560.Sources:
Equifax.com
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