Identity theft is stressful, and it can do tremendous damage to your finances. It’s important to recognize the signs early. The earlier you notice something is amiss, the faster you can take action to minimize the damage. BBB recommends the following tips to help you recognize the signs of identity theft as soon as possible.
Common Signs of Identity Theft:
- You receive statements or bills in the mail for accounts you never opened.
If you get a bill for an account you didn’t authorize, someone may have gotten a hold of your personal information and opened an account in your name.
- You are surprised by being denied a loan or credit.
You may think you have great credit, but if you apply for a credit card or loan and are shocked to find that you’ve been rejected, you may be the victim of identity theft.
- Your regular bills stop showing up in the mail.
If you haven’t signed up to go paperless and your bills stop showing up in the mail, it could be a sign that someone has changed your billing address.
- You notice suspicious activity in your bank account.
Unfamiliar charges, new accounts, and withdrawals you didn’t make are all signs of identity theft. Review your bank account regularly to make sure no one has access to your funds.
- You notice suspicious charges on your credit card.
Scammers may make a small charge on your account first to test out their information, hoping you won’t notice. If you notice any strange charges on your credit card bill, report them immediately.
- You get authentication messages for accounts you didn’t set up.
Scammers could be trying to set up a new account in your name. If you receive unexpected authentication messages, don’t reply.
- Your credit score inexplicably improves or deteriorates.
If your credit score is suddenly very low, a fraudster may have maxed out your credit without paying the bill.
- You are suddenly denied medical coverage.
Scammers can steal your identity to use your health benefits too. If you get medical bills in the mail, but you haven’t been to the doctor, someone may be using up your benefits in your name.
- Debt collectors call about debts you are unaware of.
If you receive calls from debt collectors about money owed in your name for charges you never made, someone may be using your personal information.
For more information, visit bbb.org.
