Identity Theft Awareness Week runs January 27 - 31
dentity theft occurs when someone steals your personal information such as Social Security number, bank account or credit card numbers without your permission for their own financial benefit. Fraudsters may open new accounts or take out a loan in your name, steal your card information to make unauthorized purchases and use your information to obtain medical benefits, disability checks or unemployment benefits.
“It’s scary to think about someone assuming your identity and potentially wiping out your bank account, ruining your good credit, or getting a fake driver’s license in your name,” said Comptroller Mendoza. “Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help protect yourself and your wallet.”
First, the warning signs:
Tips for preventing identity theft include:
The three credit bureaus:
It’s important to check your credit history at least once a year through either Equifax, Experian or TransUnion. Each credit bureau offers one free credit report annually.
The three credit bureaus can set up a credit freeze, which restricts access to your credit report. That means you, or anyone else, won’t be able to open a new line of credit unless the freeze is lifted. You can request a credit freeze even if you haven’t been a victim of identity theft.
If you suspect fraud, you can also request a fraud alert be placed on your credit report. This will make it harder for someone to open a new account in your name. Both options are free. Contact information below:
Equifax: www.Equifax.com, 800-525-6285
Experian: www.Experian.com, 888-397-3742
TransUnion: www.TransUnion.com, 800-680-7289
What to do if your identity is stolen:
Comptroller Mendoza adds “Identity theft can cause all kinds of problems for victims, ranging from running up your credit card to someone committing a crime in your name, so it’s imperative that you safeguard your personal information.”
The Illinois Office of Comptroller offers Smart Consumer workshops covering identity theft, fraud and more to interested communities and organizations.
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