Personal Identifying Information Theft

Last updated 06.01.2022 National

Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes, affecting millions of Americans each year. Typically, scammers steal Social Security numbers and other personal information from the Internet, the mail, or the trash and use it to commit credit card fraud, commit Medicare fraud, file fake tax returns, make large purchases, open cell phone accounts, and other crimes. In many instances, a person only notices the fraud once their credit score is damaged. If you’ve discovered your identity has been stolen, know you’re not alone.

Credit Alert (Mail Theft)

Identity theft can occur without a person realizing it. Watch to see how one woman caught the identity thieves in the act.

Credit Alert (Mail Theft) Transcript

Tax Refund Scam

Identity fraud and tax fraud often go hand in hand. Watch to see how Postal Inspectors were able to learn the intricacies of this scam.

Tax Refund Scam Transcript

Protect Yourself From Identity Theft

Don’t reveal personal information to strangers
Keep personal information private. Never give out your Social Security number, date of birth, mother’s maiden name, or credit card or bank account numbers to complete strangers over the phone or Internet.
Destroy personal documents
Shred or otherwise destroy personal data, such as correspondence, statements, pre-approved offers, and bills.
Keep financial information safe
Safeguard your financial and credit information, and monitor its use through credit alerts.
Place a fraud alert
If you feel you have been scammed, put a fraud alert on your credit bureau accounts to protect yourself from identity theft.
Check credit annually
Check your credit report with each credit bureau at least once a year.

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