Major Red Flags that Indicate Your Identity Has Been Stolen
Identity Theft is a growing problem in the United States. Millions of Americans are targeted on a daily basis by nefarious individuals, who's sole purpose is to illegally harvest personal information for a variety of illicit means. There have been countless stories on both traditional media outlets, and online sources, that have highlighted the magnitude of the problem, which has led to an increase in government agencies and business alike taking drastic action to protect both themselves and consumers against these pervasive entities whose mission is to seek an destroy your life, both financially, and personally without remorse or regard for human dignity. Despite the various measures put in place to help counter the traps set by these unscrupulous individuals, there are certain signals that you should be aware of as a regular everyday citizen to help safeguard your information especially in an age of rapid technological advancement, where your information can be pilfered within a matter of seconds. Below is a list of common red flags that can indicate that your identity has been stolen.
Unauthorized charges on your Bank /Credit Cards
Check your account balance on a regular basis for unauthorized charges especially if you have used your card in places such as Gas Stations and ATM’S. Criminals have been known to place skimmer devices on gas pumps and ATM Machines.These devices swipe your card information, which gives the fraudsters access to your bank or credit card information which allows them to make purchases, which could result in hundreds if not thousands of dollars in charges and unwanted fees.
Unfamiliar Changes on your credit report
Your credit report is your like your financial report card, only with a 3-Digit score that determines your financial future. Unfortunately this 3 digit score can be affected negatively ,especially if fraudsters get their hands on your information.You should look for things on your credit report that you dont recognize, things such as mortgages, credit card accounts, medical bills, and loans.These un-relenting scammers can have these items taken out in your name, which often shows up on your credit report, and can put a serious dent in your financial future.Make sure that your monitor your credit report regularly, or sign up for a service that notifies you as to any suspicious activity on your account.
Billed for Medical Serives You Didn't Use.
If you have gotten a bill in the mail from a medical provider and do not remember being in a doctors office, or facility for any specific treatment. You may be a possible victim of identity theft. Unsuspecting individuals are often the target of scammers that use your identify at various medical facilities for treatment, then the bills get sent to you to be paid. You may want to contact the relevant authorities and facilities to alert them as to the suspected fraud that has taken place in your name.
Tax Return filed in Your name
Have you ever gone to file a tax return online, or at a brick and mortar location only to find out that its has already been filed? While this might be a complete shocker to you, there have been millions of people across the country who have had their social security numbers stolen by identity thieves who use this info to file fraudulent tax returns in hopes of collecting a refund check. In cases like this ,you should contact The IRS directly to find out the proper re-course to take in these type of situations.
Remember it pays to be wary, and vigilant as possible when it comes to SafeGuarding your personal information, as this could save you from both financial and mental distress in the long run.