Identity Theft Blog post

One of the most frustrating and concerning things that can happen in today’s digital world is to have your identity stolen. Once an identity thief has your personal information, they can empty your bank account, make purchases with your credit cards, open new credit cards in your name, submit fraudulent tax returns in your name to get a refund, and much more. 

The following are ten common clues that someone may have stolen your identity:

1. There are withdrawals from your bank account that you did not make.
2. A store refuses to accept your checks.
3. You receive calls from debt collectors for debts that are not yours.
4. There are unfamiliar accounts, loans, or charges on your credit report.
5. You receive medical bills for services you didn’t receive.
6. Your credit card is declined when attempting to make a purchase.
7. Your tax return is rejected by the IRS because a return has already been filed in your name.
8. The IRS indicates you have income from an employer that you have never worked for.
9. A company where you have done business with informs you that they have had a data breach and your personal and/or financial information has been compromised.
10. Service for your cellphone or other utility is canceled.

Identity theft can happen in many ways, these are some of the most common ways your identity can be stolen.

• It seems like almost every week we hear about a large retail company that has had data breaches. Data breaches have become a very common way for identity theft to occur and the implications can be long term for both the organizations and individuals impacted. 
• Phishing is the act of tricking someone within a company to click on a malicious link or open a file containing a virus designed to give the criminals access to the company’s network, providing access to employee’s personal information as well as company information. 
• Many people don’t think about unsafe Internet connections as a method of identity theft but it can occur. If you’re in an airport, coffee shop, library, or another location with free public Wi-Fi, an identity thief may be on that same network using special software to allow them to see what you are doing. 
• While much more low tech, dumpster diving, or mail theft, can be a very effective way to steal your personal and financial information. Identity thieves will dig through your trash looking for bank statements, tax documents, or credit card bills that will help them steal your identity. 
• A lost or stolen Social Security card can be another easy way for your identity to be stolen. 

Being aware of these methods will help you avoid having your identity stolen but the reality of today’s world is that the chances of your identity being stolen at some point are very high. Being proactive and purchasing identity theft protection before you need it can not only help if your identity is stolen but also help prevent identity theft from occurring in the first place.