Warning Signs Your Identity Has Been Stolen

Identity theft is a serious crime that affects millions of people each year. As an individual, it is important to be vigilant and watch out for any warning signs that indicate your identity may have been compromised. This article will provide an in-depth look at the various signs that could mean your identity has been stolen.

Suspicious Activity in Bank and Credit Card Accounts

One of the first signs that your identity may be compromised is noticing unusual or fraudulent charges on your bank or credit card statements. Some warning signs include:

• Charges for purchases you didn’t make: This could involve large purchases you know you didn’t make or small, recurring charges from unfamiliar vendors.

• Withdrawals you didn’t authorize: Money withdrawn from your bank account without your permission is a red flag. This includes in-person, ATM, and online withdrawals.

• New credit cards or loans opened in your name: Keep an eye out for accounts or loans opened that you didn’t initiate. This is a sign your identity is being used to open fraudulent accounts.

• Incorrect balances: If your account balances don’t match your records, unauthorized access to your accounts may be occurring.

If you notice any suspicious transactions, report them to your bank and credit card company immediately. Request that the fraudulent charges are reversed and new cards be issued.

Receiving Bills for Accounts You Didn’t Open

Another warning sign is receiving bills or collections notices for accounts you did not open. This could include:

• Utility bills for addresses where you don’t reside
• Medical bills for procedures you did not undergo
• Collection calls or mailed notices for accounts you do not have

Someone may be using your personal information to open accounts or make purchases in your name. Do not ignore these bills – take action to report the fraud.

Denials For Credit, Loans, or Accounts

You may discover your identity was stolen when you are unexpectedly denied when applying for credit or accounts. Some key signs include:

• Being denied a new credit card or loan despite good credit
• Having an existing credit card or account closed without notification
• Being denied accounts like a gym membership or phone plan

These denials indicate your identity is being fraudulently used, lowering your credit score. Report the denials to the credit bureaus and financial institutions involved. Also request copies of your credit reports to review for additional fraudulent activity.

Notices from the IRS Regarding Your Taxes

Another serious sign of identity theft involves your taxes. Warning signs from the IRS include:

• Receiving an IRS notice that more than one tax return was filed in your name
• IRS records showing wages or income from an employer you don’t know
• Receiving an IRS notice that your personal information was compromised

Tax identity theft can allow criminals to claim tax refunds using your identity. If you receive any communication from the IRS indicating possible fraud, take action immediately.

Medical Identity Theft

Medical identity theft is another variation, with possible signs including:

• Receiving bills for medical procedures you did not have
• Being contacted by collectors over medical debts that aren’t yours
• Errors on your medical records or health insurance claims

In addition to reporting the fraud, request copies of your medical records and have any errors corrected. Provide this corrected information to medical providers to avoid additional issues.

Additional Potential Red Flags

Some other warning signs of identity theft can include:

• No longer receiving your regular mail such as bills or statements
• Seeing unfamiliar social media accounts opened in your name
• Having family or friends receive calls about debts in your name that aren’t yours
• Being turned down as a registered voter due to address issues

Steps to Take if You Suspect Identity Theft

If you notice any of these warning signs, take action:

• Contact banks, creditors, utilities, and other service providers: Report any fraudulent accounts and have them closed. Change account passwords, numbers, and security questions/answers if applicable.

• Place fraud alerts and credit freezes: Contact the three major credit bureaus to place fraud alerts on your accounts and consider credit freezes to restrict access to your credit reports.

• Report identity theft: File a report with the FTC and your local police department. Provide these official reports to banks, creditors, and other providers.

• Monitor accounts and credit reports: Continue checking your financial accounts, credit reports, and medical records for further fraudulent activity and errors. Request corrections regularly.

• Change online account passwords: Update passwords for your email, financial, ecommerce, and other online accounts. Make them strong and unique for each account.

Being aware of these common warning signs of identity theft can help you catch it early and take action before major financial damage occurs. Be proactive in monitoring your accounts and personal information to protect yourself. Report any fraudulent activity as soon as it is spotted.