How to protect yourself and recover from identity theft

How to prevent identity theft

When it comes to identity theft, prevention is your number one defense. Here are some essential steps to keep your information safe:

• Monitor credit bureaus: Regularly check your credit reports from Equifax or TransUnion to spot any suspicious activities early on.
• Safeguard personal information: Protect your personal information both online and offline. Avoid sharing sensitive data unnecessarily and be cautious about what you post on social media.
• Be alert to phishing attempts: Phishing is a common tactic used by identity thieves. Be wary of unsolicited emails or messages asking for personal information.
• Use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication (MFA): Make sure all your devices have password protections and enforce the use of strong passwords. Best practice is to aim for at least 12 characters mixing numbers, uppercase and lowercase letters, and symbols. MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring multiple forms of verification before granting access. This could be something like a text message code or a fingerprint scan. 
• Switch from paper to digital: Paper documents can easily be stolen. Instead, opt for digital statements and secure them properly.
• Conduct online checks: Regularly search for your personal information online to see what’s out there. Setting up Google alerts for your name and other identifiers can help you stay informed. And don’t forget to search online breach check websites for your name and contact information. These websites allow you to look up your personal information and discover if it's been exposed in any data breaches.
• Avoid voice authentication: Voice authentication can be easily spoofed. Instead, use more secure methods like app-based authentication.
• Be cautious of public wi-fi: Public wi-fi networks are often unsecured. Avoid accessing sensitive information when connected to public networks. If necessary, use a VPN for an added layer of security.
• Secure your identification: Take pictures of your identification documents and store them in a safe place. This can be useful if your physical ID cards are stolen.

What are some red flags to look out for?

Identifying potential signs of identity theft early can save you a lot of trouble. Keep your eyes open for red flags like unexpected credit inquiries, unusual withdrawals or charges on your bank statements, and missing bills or mail.

If you receive calls or letters about accounts you didn’t open or loans you didn’t apply for — these are clear warning signs. By monitoring your accounts and staying alert to suspicious activities, you can help catch identity theft before it spirals out of control.

What to do if you become a victim of identity theft

If you get your identity stolen, you need to take immediate action. The sooner you act, the more you may be able to mitigate the damage.

Recovering from identity theft can be a long and challenging process. Victims often face prolonged efforts to clear their names and rectify their credit reports. This may involve dealing with several institutions, disputing fraudulent activities, and even seeking legal support.

Here are some steps to take if you fall victim to a fraudster:

• Report to the authorities: Inform the police, your bank, the CRA, and other relevant agencies about the theft.
• Alert financial and other institutions: Notify your lawyers, accountants, and any other individuals responsible for financial aspects of your life.
• Contact service providers: Call your providers — like your mobile phone service provider — to inform them of the theft.
• Change passwords and enable MFA: Change all your passwords using best practices, and ensure MFA is enabled on all your accounts.
• Place fraud alerts: Contact credit bureaus to place fraud alerts on your credit reports. This can prevent new accounts from being opened in your name.
• Dispute fraudulent transactions: Dispute any unauthorized transactions with your bank and other financial institutions.

Knowledge is power

Identity theft is a serious threat that requires vigilance and proactive measures. Stay informed about what’s out there about you and take the steps to protect your identity. 

Don’t wait until it’s too late, our Digital Forensics team can help. To learn more, reach out to Ryan Duquette.