Warning Signs of Identity Theft
What Do Thieves Do With Your Information?
Once identity thieves have your personal information, they can drain your bank account, run up charges on your credit cards, open new utility accounts, or get medical treatment on your health insurance. An identity thief can file a tax refund in your name and get your refund. In extreme cases, a thief might even give your name to the police during an arrest.
Clues That Someone Has Stolen Your Information
- 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 foreign 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.
- You notice that your information was compromised by a data breach at a company where you do business or have an account.
If your wallet, Social Security number, or other personal information is lost or stolen, there are steps you can take to help protect yourself from identity theft.
Do not use security questions for your mother’s maiden name, as this is publically searchable. I use mine but purposely misspell the maiden name.
Do not use security questions for your high school or mascot, as these are easily guessable if you share this information.
Do not use or share your first car make/model/color.
Do not name your pets online.
Reduce your carbon footprint, have your head on a swivel all the time, and just “Shut Up.”
