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What is Identity Theft?
Identity theft happens when someone uses your personal or financial information without your permission. They might steal your name and address, credit card or bank account numbers, Social Security number, or medical insurance account numbers.

How Does Identity Theft Happen?
There are several ways that scammers can steal your identity, including in person, online, through social media, and by phone. Thieves can steal your wallet or go through your trash to retrieve account numbers. Online, scammers can sometimes get personal information from public Wi-Fi or through social media, or use “phishing” techniques to get information from you through fraudulent email, texts, or phone calls.

How to Protect Yourself
Be aware of your surroundings and think before you immediately respond to requests that may seem suspect, so you can make sure they are legitimate. Tips include do not answer phone calls, texts, social media messages, or email from numbers or people you do not know. Do not share personal information like your bank account number, Social Security number, or date of birth and store these documents in a secure location. Collect your mail every day and place a hold on your mail when you will be on vacation or away from your home. Review credit card and bank account statements. Watch for and report unauthorized or suspicious transactions. Create and maintain strong passwords and log in information that’s not easy to guess. Following these practices will help you avoid someone stealing your identity. If it does happen to you, know there are resources to help you correct it.

Report Identity Theft
Report anything you think may be identity theft – in a scam, cybercrime, or data breach – and get a recovery plan. The FTC, your credit union, and credit reporting agencies can all be resources to help you stop the theft and reclaim your identity.