Identity Theft
Identity theft happens when a criminal uses your personal information (name, address, birthday, social security number and other identifying information) to pretend to be you. The criminal may make purchases, create false documents, or commit other crimes using your data.
Top 4 Ways to Protect Your Identity
- Be smart - do not give out personal or financial information without verifying the source of the request. Scammers attempt to “phish” for your information by pretending to be banks, stores, or other entities. Do not provide such information online unless you are confident of the source.
- Monitor your financial statements and credit reports regularly. Review your credit reports for any suspicious activities, at least annually. Check your monthly bills and bank statements for accuracy.
- Keep your identity from being stolen from your trash. Shred papers with personal information before you throw them away - especially credit card offers and “convenience checks.”
- Place a fraud alert on your credit report if you think your identity has been stolen. Immediately contact the fraud departments of any of three consumer reporting companies.
Identity Theft
- Identity Theft Manual
Complete guide to the issue of identity theft and how to protect yourself. Outlines actionable steps on how to reduce your risks of becoming a victim (Provided by the Idaho's Attorney General).
- Idaho Bankers Association - Consumer Information
Find access to in-depth information to help protect yourself from fraud and identity theft. Provides helpful banking information, tips, resources and links for all banking consumers.
- Deter, Detect, & Defend Against Identity Theft
One-stop national resource to learn about the crime of identity theft. Provides detailed information to help you deter, detect, and defend against identity theft.
- How to Avoid Identity Theft
Identity theft avoidance tips provided by the U.S. Postal Service. Includes information on how to respond to an identity theft incident.
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