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How to Detect Cyber Identity Theft
by Jon Seidel
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Overview
The Internet is a vast, infinite universe where people can pretend to be you, and you might not know about it for months or years. Identity thieves are plentiful, and anyone, no matter who they are or where they live, can become a victim. The good news is that signs of identity theft taking place on the Internet aren't difficult to identify, enabling you to figure out if you've been targeted by one of these thieves.
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Step 1
Keep an eye on your mail. Many of us are inclined to toss envelopes that look like junk mail. Before you do so, give everything a quick glance. Make sure you're not receiving letters or bills from credit card companies about recently opened accounts you didn't know about, or anything else that seems suspicious. As a preventative measure, it's a good idea to shred anything an identity thief can pull from your trash can, such as a credit card offer.
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Step 2
Monitor your financial information. If you know how much money you are spending and where you are spending it, you will know if someone is making online purchases in your name without your permission. Spend a few minutes every week, if not every day, checking your bank and credit card accounts to make sure nothing looks suspicious. Don't be afraid to call the bank for more information if you see a purchase you don't remember. It could be something you forgot about. Or it could be someone stealing your identity.
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Step 3
Check your credit reports. Federal law requires each of the three major credit companies to provide a free copy of your credit report to you every 12 months. You can order them by visiting www.annualcreditreport.com. Take advantage of this law and review your credit reports once a year. Follow the company's appeals procedure if you see something on a report that doesn't belong.
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Step 4
Watch for other unexpected signs. If you've been a victim of cyber identity theft, the clues may come to you. Bill collectors could begin to call about debts you don't owe, or you might find yourself unexpectedly turned down for a car or mortgage loan. Being turned down for a loan also entitles you to a free copy of your credit report. Request it and make sure you weren't turned down for a reason that has nothing to do with you.
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Step 5
Sign up for credit monitoring. Some companies offer credit monitoring services that, for a fee, will alert you every time there's a change in one of your accounts. The Federal Trade Commission recommends consumers research each company's services and check in with the local Better Business Bureau and your state's Attorney General before signing up with one of these companies.
