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Identity Theft
Stealing personal information to open fraudulent accounts, file fake tax returns, or make unauthorized transactions.
How This Scam Works
- 1Scammers obtain your personal details through data breaches, phishing, or social engineering
- 2They use your identity to open new credit cards, bank accounts, or loans
- 3They may file fraudulent tax returns in your name
- 4You discover the fraud when you check your credit report or get unexpected bills
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unexpected credit card or loan statements
- Calls from debt collectors for debts you don't recognize
- Denied credit for unknown reasons
- Unfamiliar accounts on your credit report
What to Do If You're a Victim
- Freeze your credit with all major credit bureaus
- File an identity theft report with the FTC (identitytheft.gov)
- Contact your bank and credit card companies immediately
- File a police report