Prevention Guide

Identity Theft Prevention

Protect your name, Social Security number, and credit from thieves. Simple steps to guard your identity both online and offline.

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Download the Prevention Guide

A comprehensive guide with checklists for protecting your identity, monitoring your credit, and responding if your information is stolen.

Download Guide (PDF)

What's Covered

Protect Your Social Security

When to share it, when to refuse, and how scammers try to get it

Secure Your Mail

Prevent mail theft and safely handle financial documents

Monitor Your Credit

Free credit reports and how to spot suspicious activity

Online Identity Safety

Passwords, personal information, and avoiding phishing

Protection Actions to Take Today

  • Never give your Social Security number over the phone unless you initiated the call
  • Shred documents with personal information before throwing away
  • Check your free credit report at annualcreditreport.com
  • Use a locked mailbox or pick up mail promptly

Signs Your Identity May Be Stolen

Bills for things you didn't buy, calls from debt collectors about unknown debts, denied credit unexpectedly, or unfamiliar accounts on your credit report. If you notice any of these, call your bank and the FTC at 1-877-FTC-HELP immediately.

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