How does identity theft happen?

Someone can steal your personal information in different ways, such as:

• Taking your social security number, credit card, or bank account information,
• Hacking into your online accounts, or
• Going through your mail or trash to find personal documents.

What can identity thieves do?

If someone gets your information, they might:

• Open credit cards or take out loans in your name,
• Make purchases using your accounts,
• Change your mailing address so you miss bills, or
• Pretend to be you when dealing with banks or businesses.

Signs you might be a victim

Have you:

• Seen charges on your credit card that you did not make?
• Gotten bills for things you did not buy?
• Been denied credit even though your credit is good?
• Gotten letters or calls about accounts you do not know about?

Why acting fast matters

Acting quickly can stop further damage to your credit, finances, and personal information. The faster you report identity theft, the more legal protections and recovery options you have.