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

 Thieves might:

• Go through your trash can or dumpster, stealing bills with sensitive information.
• Work for businesses and steal information on the job.
• Misuse the name of a legitimate business and try to trick you into revealing information, either by phone or by email.
• Pretend to offer you a job, or rent an apartment and ask you for information to “qualify.”
• Steal your wallet, purse, backpack or mail in order to get credit cards or other items that show personal information.

 Signs of Identity Theft:

• Mistakes on your bank or credit card statements.
• Mistakes on the explanation of medical benefits from your health plan.
• Bills for items you did not purchase
• Calls from debt collectors
• An IRS notice that someone has used your Social Security Number
• Unwarranted collection notices on your credit report
• Being turned down for a loan or a job

 Protect Yourself by:

• Order all 3 credit reports once per year and read them carefully. To order, go to annualcreditreport.com or call 877-322-8228
• Read all the bank, credit card statements or health benefit explanations you receive – if there is a mistake contact the the business right away
• Shred all documents that show personal information before you throw them away.
• Do not use the same computer password for more than one account
• Use antivirus and firewall protection software on your computer
• If you shop online, make sure the website uses encryption – https at the beginning of a web address (“s” is for secure).