- Identity fraud occurs when someone uses your credit card to make purchases, opens a new account or line of credit in your name, or uses your Social Security number.
- Signs of identity fraud include accounts or debts for which you are not responsible, denial of credit for unexplainable reasons, failure to receive bills or statements, and inaccurate information on your credit report.
- If you think someone has stolen your identity, contact your banks and creditors and have them change or cancel your accounts. Report the situation to t the Federal Trade Commission.
- Get a copy of your credit report every six to 12 months. Your credit report will include a list of all financial accounts in your name. From this you will be able to tell if someone has fraudulently opened an account or line of credit using your identity.
- To reduce the chance of identity theft, keep your personal details in a safe place. Do not throw important and confidential documents into the garbage or post personal information on the Internet. Do not carry all your credit cards in your wallet, and always take credit card receipts with you after making a purchase.
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