Lisa O
Identity theft is a huge concern in today’s digital age. When someone steals your personal information, it can lead to financial losses, harm your credit score, and create a long and stressful journey to reclaim your identity. Recognizing the warning signs early can help you take swift action to minimize the damage. Here are 15 indicators that you might be experiencing identity theft and what steps to take if you suspect your information has been compromised.
Unfamiliar Charges on Your Bank or Credit Card Statements
If you notice charges on your bank or credit card statements that you don’t recognize, even if they’re small, it could mean that someone has gained access to your accounts. Thieves sometimes make small “test” transactions before committing to larger purchases. So, regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized charges. If you spot anything suspicious, contact your bank or credit card company immediately.
Unexpected Withdrawals from Your Bank Account
If money disappears from your account without your approval, it’s a clear sign that someone may have accessed your bank information and is making unauthorized withdrawals. Contact your bank right away to report the unauthorized withdrawal. They may freeze your account, issue a new debit card, and begin an investigation into the fraudulent activity.
Receiving Bills for Services You Didn’t Use
Receiving bills for services you never signed up for or used suggests that someone has stolen your identity and is using it to set up accounts in your name. It can happen with utilities, medical services, or memberships. Contact the service provider to inform them that the account is fraudulent. Request a copy of the bill and any associated records as well.
Denied Credit or Loans Unexpectedly
If you’re unexpectedly denied credit, loans, or even a rental application despite having a good credit history, it could mean that your credit report has been compromised due to identity theft. Thieves may have opened accounts in your name, racked up debt, and left it unpaid, damaging your credit score. Obtain your credit report from the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to check for any unfamiliar accounts or inquiries.
Calls from Debt Collectors for Unknown Debts
If debt collectors are contacting you about debts you don’t recognize, it’s likely that someone has taken out loans or credit in your name and hasn’t paid them off. These debts may not yet appear on your credit report, making the calls your first indication of a problem. Ask the debt collector for details about the debt, including the creditor’s name and the amount owed. Then, dispute the debt with the collection agency.
Tax Return Rejected
If your tax return is rejected because one has already been filed under your Social Security number, it’s a clear sign of identity theft. Thieves may use your personal information to file a fraudulent tax return and claim your refund. Contact the IRS immediately to report the identity theft and follow their instructions for filing a report.
Unfamiliar Accounts or Loans on Your Credit Report
If you discover accounts or loans on your credit report that you didn’t open, it’s a strong indication that someone has stolen your identity. These fraudulent accounts can harm your credit score and financial stability. Dispute the unauthorized accounts with the credit bureaus immediately and request that they be removed from your report.
Missing Regular Bills or Mail
If your monthly bills or important mail suddenly stops arriving, it could mean someone has changed your mailing address without your consent. Identity thieves may redirect your mail to access sensitive information or to avoid detection while they misuse your identity. Contact your local post office to verify if your address has been changed. Also, reach out to the companies that send you bills to ensure they have your correct address.
Unexplained Drop in Credit Score
An unexpected drop in your credit score can signal that someone has opened accounts in your name, missed payments, or maxed out credit cards under your identity. Even if you haven’t applied for new credit, the actions of an identity thief can severely damage your creditworthiness. So, regularly monitor your credit score for any unexpected changes. If your score drops, review your credit report for unfamiliar accounts or activities.
Notification of a Data Breach
If a company where you have an account notifies you that your personal information was involved in a data breach, your identity may be at risk. Data breaches can expose sensitive information like Social Security numbers, credit card details, and passwords to criminals. Take the notification seriously and immediately change your passwords for any affected accounts.
Medical Bills for Services Not Received
Receiving medical bills for treatments or services you didn’t receive is a red flag that someone may be using your identity to obtain medical care. This can result in inaccuracies in your medical records, which could have serious implications for your health and finances. Contact the healthcare provider or billing department immediately to dispute the charges and inform them that you may be a victim of medical identity theft.
Locked Out of Online Accounts
If you suddenly can’t access your online accounts, it could mean that someone has hacked into them and changed your passwords. Your personal information could have been compromised, potentially giving thieves access to your financial and personal data. If you’re locked out of an account, try to recover it using available security measures, such as password recovery tools or two-factor authentication. If you suspect your account has been hacked, contact the service provider immediately.
Social Security Benefits Claimed in Your Name
If you apply for Social Security benefits and are informed that they’ve already been claimed, it’s a strong indication that someone is using your Social Security number fraudulently. Contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) immediately to report the fraud and provide the necessary documentation to prove your identity. The SSA can investigate the issue and help you recover your benefits.
Loan Application Notifications for Loans You Didn’t Apply For
Receiving notifications about loan applications you didn’t submit is a clear sign of identity theft. Thieves may use your personal information to apply for loans or lines of credit, leaving you with a financial burden and potential damage to your credit score. Contact the lender immediately to inform them that the application is fraudulent. Request that they cancel the application and investigate the matter.
Legal Notices or Warrants for Crimes You Didn’t Commit
If you receive a legal notice, warrant, or summons for crimes you didn’t commit, it’s possible that someone has stolen your identity and used it while engaging in criminal activities.Contact the law enforcement agency that issued the notice immediately and explain that you may be a victim of identity theft. Provide any documentation that proves your identity and innocence.