Identity Theft

Identity theft is the practice of using one or more personal pieces of information to falsify or steal one's identity. Identity theft usually involves the taking of unique, personal information such as:

1. Social Security Number
2. Bank account or credit card number
3. Telephone calling card number

In the worst cases, entire identities can be taken, enabling the criminals to run up large debts and commit crimes while using the victim’s identity. In these cases, the victim faces not just the initial loss of funds, but additional hassle and financial costs associated with trying to restore his or her reputation in the community and correcting erroneous information for which the criminal is responsible.

Protect Yourself from Identity Theft

• Create an alternate username to use in place of your Social Security number whenever possible
• Review financial statements as they arrive for unauthorized transactions or changes
• Review your credit report regularly
• Shred all documents containing personal information
• Know what to do if you suspect you have become a victim of identity theft
• Be vocal - urge merchants and financial institutions that don't use secure practices to do so

Learn More

• **NEW**Protecting Your Identity and Your Credit After A Breach
• Protect Yourself from Identity Theft
• US Department of Justice: Identity Theft
• Social Security Online: Identity Theft
• Federal Trade Commission: Identity Theft