Thank you for attending this important session on what to do if you suspect your identity has been stolen. We discussed how to recognize warning signs, take swift action, and put protective measures in place to help you recover and prevent future issues.

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

Know the Red Flags

Unexpected credit denials, collection agency calls, dropped credit scores, unfamiliar bills, and changed passwords you didn’t initiate are all signs your identity may be compromised.

Check and Freeze Your Credit

Use the free site AnnualCreditReport.com to review your credit reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Freezing your credit with all three agencies is one of the strongest protective steps you can take.

Report Fraud Quickly

Contact your bank, credit card issuers, and debit card providers immediately if fraud occurs. Also report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission at identitytheft.gov to get a recovery plan.

Add Extra Protection

Set up transaction alerts for your bank and credit card accounts. Use strong, regularly updated passwords and enable two-factor authentication on financial accounts and any site where your payment info is stored.

Be Proactive About Security

Shred sensitive mail, avoid using public Wi-Fi for financial tasks, keep your antivirus software up to date, and consider requesting an IRS PIN to prevent tax refund fraud.

And remember: Protecting your Social Security number is key. Only provide it when absolutely necessary and never through unsecured websites or public networks.