10 Easy Steps To Help Prevent Identity Theft:
- Protect your Social Security number. Don’t carry your card, don’t write the number on checks, and only share it when absolutely necessary. Ask if another identifier can be used instead.
- Be cautious when sharing personal information. Only give details to people or businesses you trust. If asked for personal info, find out why they need it, how they’ll protect it, and what happens if you choose not to share.
- Limit personal details online. Don’t over‑share on social media. Avoid posting anything that could help someone impersonate you — including your full name, year of birth, or other identifying details.
- Use secure Wi‑Fi practices. Avoid entering personal or financial information on public Wi‑Fi networks. When working remotely or traveling, use a VPN or a secure, private connection to keep your data protected.
- Practice safe online habits. Only enter personal information on secure (“https”) websites. Keep antivirus and firewall software updated, avoid unknown downloads, and disconnect from the internet when not in use.
- Use strong, frequently updated passwords. Change them every 60 days and choose combinations of letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using family names or obvious personal information.
- Shred sensitive documents. Use a paper shredder to destroy anything with personal or financial information — like bank statements, receipts, or credit applications.
- Safeguard digital devices. Password‑protect your phone and other devices, and wipe personal data before selling or disposing of them — including SIM cards, photos, messages, and call logs.
- Stay alert for suspicious activity. Be cautious of emails, calls, or messages requesting personal information. If something seems off, hang up and contact the company directly using a trusted number.
- Monitor your credit regularly. Take advantage of your three free annual credit reports — one each from Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax — and spread them out throughout the year.
This information was adapted from the Federal Trade Commission.
Learn more about the most common types of identity theft.
File a Complaint
The Attorney General’s Office has set up a hotline to help you recognize and report identity theft. Complaint investigators will also help advise victims of identity theft. Call the AGO consumer hotline at 800-392-8222.