Identity Theft

Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information without your permission. 

There are several clues that someone has stolen your information. Some of those clues include:

• Seeing withdrawals from your bank account you can't explain.
• You are not getting your bills or mail.
• You discover unfamiliar accounts or charges on your credit report.
• Merchants refuse your checks.
• A letter from the IRS saying the wage amount on your Social Security statement doesn't match the amount you filed on your tax return

There are steps you can take to prevent your identity from being stolen:

• Don't share personal information because someone asks for it.
• Collect your mail every day.
• Pay attention to your billing cycles.
• Use security features on your phone.
• Review your credit card and bank statements.
• Shred any documents that has your personal information. 
• Install firewalls and virus-detection software on your computer. 
• Create complex passwords.
• Review your credit reports once a year. 

HOW TO REPORT IDENTITY THEFT:

Report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov or call 1-877-438-4338. If you make a report online you should receive an identity theft report and a recovery plan.

If you wish to make a report with an officer please call 801-395-8221.