How to detect your identity has been stolen 

• Incorrect information on your credit report
• Bills for items you did not buy
• Unexpected withdrawals 
• Debt collection calls for accounts you did not open
• Denials of loan applications
• Medical statements with charges that you do not recognize
• Unexpected change of address

How to report identity theft

If your identity is stolen, contact: 

• The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) online at identitytheft.gov or call 1-877-438-4338
• The three major credit reporting agencies: TransUnion, Equifax, Experian
• Your bank's fraud department.

Follow the steps in the IdentityTheft.gov list of steps

How does identity theft happen

Identity theft may happen several ways, by phone, online or in person. Some scenarios are:

• Your wallet with credit, debit cards or ID is stolen
• Your trash is picked at, to get financial information such as bank statements or tax information
• Skimmer devices at ATM machines, cash registers or fuel pumps to steal your bank information
• Fraudulent emails, texts, or phone calls
• Personal or financial information in online quizzes or surveys is stolen
• Your mail is stolen or opened

How to protect yourself from identity theft

• Do not share personal information if you don't need to, i.e.: bank account number, Social Security Number (SSN), or date of birth.
• Do not answer phone calls, texts, social media messages or emails from numbers or people you do not know.
• Collect your mail daily and place a hold on your mail if you know you will be away from home.
• Review your credit card and bank account statements routinely. 
• Learn more about ATM skimming.
• Store personal information, such as SSN, in a safe space. If you can, do not carry it in your wallet. 
• If getting rid of personal documents, shred them before throwing away or find a shredding service near you. 
• Learn about how to safely use public Wi-Fi networks
• Check your Free credit report.

Watch

Read

• Are Public Wi-Fi Networks Safe? What You Need to Know — FTC Consumer Advice
• Free Credit Reports — FTC Consumer Advice

Source: Identity Theft — USA.gov

These recommendations are being provided for informational purposes only; they do not constitute an endorsement or approval by the University of Missouri-Kansas City. The University of Missouri-Kansas City bears no responsibility for the accuracy, legality or content of the resources listed.