ProtectMyID: Knowing the Signs of Identity Theft
Identity is a rising threat and a fast-growing crime that can affect anyone. In 2019 alone, more than 3.2 million reports of fraud, identity theft, and related incidents occurred in the U.S., according to the Federal Trade Commission.1 Finding out you're a victim of identity theft is shocking and frustrating. No matter how it happened— the latest data breach, a lost wallet, credit card fraud, or something else—it can leave you feeling hopeless and worried.
Being proactive and recognizing the signs of identity theft is critical to help prevent it. With ProtectMyID® from AAA, you can take control, detect, and resolve identity theft with three levels of coverage. In addition to signing up for your exclusive member benefit, here are six signs of identity theft to look out for:
1. Your Household Bills Have Stopped Showing Up in Your Mailbox
If you stop receiving billing statements, this could signal that your personal information has been compromised because an identity thief has changed your billing address.
2. Your Credit or Loan Application Gets Denied
If you're turned down for credit even though you've established a strong credit history, you might have become a victim of an identity thief. Being approved for a loan or credit at a higher interest rate can also be a sign that you've been hit by identity theft.
3. You Receive Statements for Purchases You Didn't Make
Being billed for late payments for accounts you don't have, or getting notifications about purchases you don't recognize is a sign you've been victimized by I.D. fraud.
4. Fraudulent Transactions Appear on Your Financial Accounts
If your bank, credit union, credit card, or other financial account show unauthorized transactions, those accounts could be compromised.
5. Your Tax Return Is Declined
If you file your returns and receive a rejection notice from the IRS, it could indicate that a return has been fraudulently submitted using your name and personal information.
6. Small Charges Appear on Your Credit Card Statement
It's usual practice for thieves to "test" a stolen card by making low-cost purchases, typically under $5.00. If the transaction goes through, it paves the way for the fraudster to make larger purchases.
To learn more and sign up today, visit AAA.com/IDTheft