Identity theft is a growing concern, affecting millions of people each year. Scammers can misuse your personal information to open credit accounts, steal tax refunds, or even file fraudulent health insurance claims. To help you stay informed and protected, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is hosting Identity Theft Awareness Week from January 27-31.
During this event, you can learn about different types of identity theft, how to recognize them, and what steps to take if you become a victim. The Social Security Administration (SSA) and the FTC are also offering free webinars on January 30 to help you understand and combat identity theft.
What is Identity Theft?
Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information—such as your Social Security number, bank details, or credit card information—without your permission. This can lead to financial loss, legal issues, and damage to your credit score.
Common Types of Identity Theft:
- Financial Fraud: Opening new credit cards or loans in your name.
- Tax Fraud: Filing fake tax returns to claim refunds.
- Medical Identity Theft: Using your insurance details for unauthorized medical services.
- Criminal Identity Theft: Pretending to be you when stopped by law enforcement.
How Does Identity Theft Happen?
Scammers use various tactics to steal personal information, including:
- Phishing Emails & Calls: Fake emails or phone calls pretending to be from banks or government agencies.
- Data Breaches: When hackers steal customer information from businesses.
- Skimming Devices: Hidden card readers at ATMs or payment terminals that steal your card details.
- Social Media Scams: Fraudsters trick people into sharing personal information online.
How to Spot Identity Theft
You might be a victim of identity theft if you notice:
- Unexpected charges on your bank or credit card statements.
- A sudden drop in your credit score.
- Bills or loan approvals for accounts you didn’t open.
- IRS notices about tax returns you didn’t file.
- Medical bills for services you never received.
What to Do If Your Identity Is Stolen
If you suspect identity theft, take these steps immediately:
- Report it: Visit IdentityTheft.gov to report the fraud and get a recovery plan.
- Freeze Your Credit: Contact credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion) to prevent further misuse.
- Notify Your Bank & Credit Card Issuers: Report fraudulent transactions and request new cards.
- Change Your Passwords: Secure your accounts with strong, unique passwords.
- Monitor Your Credit Reports: Regularly check your credit reports for unauthorized activity.
Free Webinars on Identity Theft Prevention
To help you understand identity theft and recovery steps, the FTC and SSA are offering two free webinars on Thursday, January 30:
- Noon Session (English) – Click here to join.
- 2:00 PM Session (Spanish) – Click here to join.
No registration is required. Experts from the FTC will discuss identity theft, how it happens, how to prevent it, and what to do if you become a victim. You’ll also learn about free recovery tools available at IdentityTheft.gov.
Other Events During Identity Theft Awareness Week
Throughout the week, the FTC and its partners are organizing events tailored for different groups, including:
- Service members and veterans
- Older adults and caregivers
- Young adults and college students
- Small business owners
For more details, check out the full schedule at Identity Theft Awareness Week.
Join Us for ‘Slam the Scam’ Day on March 6
Identity theft isn’t the only threat—scammers also target people through fake calls, emails, and messages. To raise awareness, the SSA’s Office of the Inspector General is organizing “Slam the Scam” Day on Thursday, March 6. This event, part of National Consumer Protection Week (March 2-8), will help you recognize and avoid scams.
Spread the Word & Stay Safe
Identity theft can happen to anyone, but awareness and prevention can make a difference. Share this information with your family, friends, and colleagues to help them stay safe. Also, post about Identity Theft Awareness Week and Slam the Scam Day on social media to spread awareness.
Taking proactive steps now can protect you from financial loss and stress in the future. Stay informed, stay alert, and protect your identity!
FAQ on Identity Theft
1. What should I do if someone steals my identity?
Report it to IdentityTheft.gov, freeze your credit, notify your bank, and monitor your accounts for suspicious activity.
2. How can I tell if I’m a victim of identity theft?
Look for unexpected bank charges, unfamiliar credit accounts, a sudden drop in your credit score, or IRS notifications about tax returns you didn’t file.
3. How do I protect myself from identity theft?
Use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, avoid sharing personal details online, and monitor your credit reports regularly.
4. What is Identity Theft Awareness Week?
It’s an annual event hosted by the FTC to educate people on preventing identity theft and recovering from fraud.
5. Are the webinars on identity theft free?
Yes, the webinars on January 30 are free and open to everyone. No registration is required.
6. What is “Slam the Scam” Day?
It’s an event on March 6 to help people recognize and avoid scams, as part of National Consumer Protection Week.