
How to Tell if You’re a Victim of Identity Theft
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Once personal information has been leaked into the hands of a cybercriminal, it’s easy for them to steal your identity and from there, the possibilities are endless. Everyone is probably tired of hearing about Equifax at this point, but the silver lining to the insane media coverage is bringing awareness to the general public about the consequences of lax cybersecurity. Harming your credit score, gaining access to your financial institutions, and having open access to your friends and family are just a few of the things a criminal could use your stolen identity for.
Staying vigilant about identity theft is a crucial part of keeping your information safe and secure. Some of these red flags sound like common sense, but you’d be surprised at how many people brush off incidents that should prompt immediate action.
Here are some of the most common red flag warnings of identity theft from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC):
- You see withdrawals from your bank account that you can’t explain.
- You don’t get your bills or other mail.
- Merchants refuse your checks.
- Debt collectors call you about debts that aren’t yours.
- You find unfamiliar accounts or charges on your credit report.
- Medical providers bill you for services you didn’t use.
- Your health plan rejects your legitimate medical claim because the records show you’ve reached your benefits limit.
- A health plan won’t cover you because your medical records show a condition you don’t have.
- The IRS notifies you that more than one tax return was filed in your name, or that you have income from an employer you don’t work for.
- 1-877-ID THEFT (877-438-4338)
- TDD (toll-free): 1-866-653-4261
- 600 Pennsylvania Ave., Washington DC 20580