How to Protect Yourself From Identity Theft

Identity thieves use stolen personal information to open credit cards, take out loans or file fake tax returns in your name. Prevention is far easier than cleaning up afterward.

Step by step

1. Freeze your credit

   Place a free freeze at Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. You can lift it temporarily when you apply for credit.

2. Use a password manager

   Create long, unique passwords for every account so one breach doesn't expose others.

3. Turn on two-factor authentication

   Use an authenticator app where possible; it's safer than text-message codes.

4. Check your credit reports

   Review free reports from AnnualCreditReport.com regularly for accounts you don't recognize.

5. Protect your Social Security number

   Don't carry your card, and ask why a business needs the number before giving it.

6. Get an IRS Identity Protection PIN

   An IP PIN helps prevent someone else from filing a tax return using your Social Security number.

7. Shred sensitive documents

   Shred bank statements, pre-approved credit offers and medical bills before throwing them away.

Warning signs

• Bills or collection calls for accounts you didn't open
• Unexpected hard inquiries on your credit report
• A tax return rejected because one was already filed with your Social Security number
• Missing mail or statements

If it happens

1. Report it at IdentityTheft.gov for a personalized recovery plan.
2. Contact the companies where fraud occurred and close fraudulent accounts.
3. Place or confirm credit freezes and add a fraud alert.
4. File a police report if needed for creditors.
5. Check your credit reports over the following months.