Identity theft is a crime in which someone steals your personal information and uses it to commit fraud or other crimes. Identity theft is a serious crime that occurs when someone steals your personal information and uses it to commit fraud or other crimes. Identity thieves can use your information to open new accounts, make unauthorised purchases, file fraudulent tax returns, and even take out loans in your name.
The most common way that identity thieves get your personal information is through phishing scams. Phishing scams are emails or websites that are designed to look like they are from a legitimate company, such as your bank or credit card company. The goal of the scam is to trick you into entering your personal information, such as your Social Security number or credit card number.
Other ways that identity thieves can get your personal information include:
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Stealing your mail
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Dumpster diving
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Hacking into your computer or phone
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Overhearing you give your personal information over the phone
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Stealing your wallet or purse
If you think that your identity has been stolen, there are a few things you can do:
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Place a fraud alert on your credit report. A fraud alert tells creditors to take extra steps to verify your identity before opening a new account in your name.
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Contact your creditors and let them know that you may have been a victim of identity theft.
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File a police report. This will help you to get a copy of the police report, which you may need to dispute fraudulent charges on your credit report.
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Sign up for credit monitoring services. Credit monitoring services will alert you to any changes to your credit report, which can help you to catch identity theft early.
It is important to take steps to protect yourself from identity theft. Here are a few tips:
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Use strong passwords and don't share them with anyone.
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Be careful about what information you share online.
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Shred any documents that contain your personal information before you throw them away.
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Keep your computer and phone up to date with the latest security software.
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Be suspicious of any emails or websites that ask for your personal information.
By taking these steps, you can help to protect yourself from identity theft.
FAQs:
What are some of the signs that my identity may have been stolen? Some of the signs that your identity may have been stolen include:
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You receive bills or credit card statements for charges that you did not make.
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Your credit report shows accounts that you did not open.
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You are denied credit or a loan.
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You are contacted by a debt collector for debts that you do not owe.
What should I do if I think my identity has been stolen?
If you think your identity has been stolen, there are a few things you should do:
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Place a fraud alert on your credit report.
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Contact your creditors and let them know that you may have been a victim of identity theft.
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File a police report.
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Sign up for credit monitoring services.
By taking these steps, you can help to protect yourself from identity theft.
(DISCLAIMER: This is an opinion piece. The views expressed are the author’s own and have nothing to do with OTV’s charter or views. OTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.)