Identity Theft Awareness Week runs January 27 - 31

Identity theft occurs when someone steals your personal information such as Social Security number, bank account or credit card numbers without your permission for their own financial benefit. Fraudsters may open new accounts or take out a loan in your name, steal your card information to make unauthorized purchases and use your information to obtain medical benefits, disability checks or unemployment benefits.
“It’s scary to think about someone assuming your identity and potentially wiping out your bank account, ruining your good credit, or getting a fake driver’s license in your name,” said Comptroller Mendoza. “Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help protect yourself and your wallet.”

First, the warning signs:
• Receiving bills for items you didn’t buy.
• Your credit report shows accounts you did not open.
• You receive calls from debt collectors for accounts or purchases you didn’t authorize.
• You’re denied a loan because your credit is suddenly bad.

Tips for preventing identity theft include:
• Inspect your banking statements regularly for unknown charges.
• Verify that the statements in your health insurance plan match the care that you have received.
• Avoid answering calls that you do not recognize.

What to do if your identity is stolen:
• Call the Illinois Attorney General’s Identity Theft Hotline at: 866-999-5630.

94.1 WGFA