The court method is the preferred way to change a name for identity thieves because it is a relatively simple process. ... Because changing your name is so simple, thieves take advantage of the opportunity by obtaining your Social Security number and using it to secure loans and open up new lines of credit.
Can your identity be stolen with your name?
Identity theft is when a cybercriminal gains access to your personal information to steal money or gain other benefits. They can create fake identity documents in your name , get loans and benefits or apply for real identity documents in your name, but with another person’s photograph.
How do I clear my name from identity theft?
To clear arrest records due to identity theft, you must petition the court for a Judicial Finding of Factual Innocence and inquire about a petition to expunge your criminal record .
Can identity theft be stopped?
Identitytheft.gov is a one-stop shop for information and reporting identity theft. Start with that site, which is run by the Federal Trade Commission, and follow its recommended steps to make a recovery plan. You may also need to contact your police department, the Postal Service and the credit bureaus.
What is the first thing you should do if your identity is stolen?
- File a claim with your identity theft insurance, if applicable.
- Notify companies of your stolen identity.
- File a report with the Federal Trade Commission.
- Contact your local police department.
- Place a fraud alert on your credit reports.
- Freeze your credit.
How do you check to see if someone stole your identity?
- Step 1: Check your bank account for unusual transactions. ...
- Step 2: Check for suspicious activity on your online accounts. ...
- Step 3: Look out for unusual emails, texts, and letters. ...
- Step 4: Take note of how much mail you’re receiving. ...
- Step 5: Check your credit report.
How can I protect myself from identity theft?
- 10 Ways To Protect Yourself From Identity Theft. ...
- Destroy private records and statements. ...
- Secure your mail. ...
- Safeguard your Social Security number. ...
- Don’t leave a paper trail. ...
- Never let your credit card out of your sight. ...
- Know who you’re dealing with. ...
- Take your name off marketers’ hit lists.
What are you liable for if your identity is stolen?
If you report your identity theft to the FTC within two business days of discovering it, you will only be liable to pay $50 of any unauthorized use of your bank and credit accounts (under federal law). The longer you leave it, the more that financial liability falls on your shoulders.
How do I clear my identity?
The quick answer is that no, you can’t completely erase your identity in this day and age — unless the government does it for you. Legally changing your name isn’t too difficult. Legally changing your Social Security number (SSN) is possible as well, but only under certain circumstances.
What is the number one type of identity theft?
Financial identity theft is the most common type of identity theft.
What might Identity thieves do with your identity?
Identity thieves can steal your personal information directly or indirectly by: Stealing your wallets and purses containing identification cards, credit cards and bank information. Stealing your mail including credit and bank statements, phone or utility bills, new checks, and tax information.
How do you beat identity theft charges?
You might be able to defend against an identity theft charge by arguing that you did not have the intent to collect someone’s personal identifying information or to use another person’s personal identifying information in your possession, or that you did not intend to use another’s personal identifying information for ...
What should I do if I get identity theft Social Security number?
The FTC collects complaints about identity theft from those whose identities have been stolen. You may reach the FTC’s identity theft hotline toll free at 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338) or visit their website at www.ftc.gov/idtheft. Consider placing a fraud alert on your Social Security number.
What do hackers do with your stolen identity?
Your info could be used to open credit cards or take out loans . If hackers have your Social Security number, name, birthdate and address, they can open credit cards or apply for loans in your name.
What three steps do you take in order if your identity is stolen?
- Notify affected creditors or banks. ...
- Put a fraud alert on your credit report. ...
- Check your credit reports. ...
- Freeze your credit. ...
- Report the identity theft to the FTC. ...
- Go to the police. ...
- Remove fraudulent info from your credit report.
What do I do if my personal information has been compromised?
- File a police report. Contact your local police to file a police report of the incident. ...
- Contact your financial institution right away. ...
- Alert your credit agencies. ...
- Notify provincial agencies. ...
- Stay alert.
