What to Do if Your Identity Is Stolen? Start Here!

10 Things to Do if Your Identity Is Stolen

1. File a claim with your identity theft insurance, if applicable.
2. Notify companies of your stolen identity.
3. File a report with the Federal Trade Commission.
4. Contact your local police department.
5. Place a fraud alert on your credit reports.
6. Freeze your credit.
7. Sign up for a credit monitoring service, if offered.

1. What is the best way to find out if your identity was stolen?
2. What kind of crimes can make use of a stolen identity?
3. Can identity theft charges be dropped?
4. What do hackers do with your stolen identity?
5. What should I do if I get identity theft Social Security number?
6. What are the warning signs of identity theft?
7. What is the most common form of identity theft?
8. Can someone steal your identity with just your name?
9. What is the most common method used to steal your identity?

What is the best way to find out if your identity was stolen?

How to check if your identity has been stolen

1. Check your credit card statements and bank account. If you notice any suspicious activity, alert your bank or credit union right away. ...
2. Run a credit report. U.S. citizens are entitled to a free one every 12 months. ...
3. Monitor your finances closely.

What kind of crimes can make use of a stolen identity?

Identity thieves can also use your identity when they commit other crimes, such as entering (or exiting) a country illegally, trafficking drugs, smuggling other substances, committing cyber crimes, laundering money and much more. In fact, they can use your identity to commit almost any crime imaginable in your name.

Can identity theft charges be dropped?

You may be able to have your identity theft charges dropped if: You didn't obtain use a person's information unlawfully – If you did not obtain or use someone else's personal information unlawfully, you are not guilty of identity theft.

What do hackers do with your stolen identity?

Your info could be used to open credit cards or take out loans. If hackers have your Social Security number, name, birthdate and address, they can open credit cards or apply for loans in your name.

What should I do if I get identity theft Social Security number?

The FTC collects complaints about identity theft from those whose identities have been stolen. You may reach the FTC's identity theft hotline toll free at 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338) or visit their website at www.ftc.gov/idtheft. Additional Resources: Protecting Your Social Security Number from Identity Theft.

What are the warning signs of identity theft?

9 warning signs of identity theft

• Your bank statement doesn't look right or your checks bounce. ...
• You see unfamiliar and unauthorized activity on your credit card or credit report. ...
• Your bills are missing or you receive unfamiliar bills. ...
• Your cellphone or another utility loses service. ...
• You receive calls from debt collectors.

What is the most common form of identity theft?

Financial identity theft is by far the most common type of identity theft. In 2014, identity thieves stole $16 billion from 12.7 million identity fraud victims, according to Javelin Strategy & Research.

Can someone steal your identity with just your name?

This is commonly referred to as personally identifiable information, or PII. When such information is linked to your name, it gives the thief easy access to your identity. Armed with just your name and your Social Security number, a thief can not only access your accounts but also obtain credit in your name.

What is the most common method used to steal your identity?

Financial identity theft.

This is the most common form of identity theft -- when someone uses another person's information for financial gain. For instance, a fraudster may use your bank account or credit card numbers to steal money or make purchases, or use your Social Security number to open a new credit card.