Identity theft is one of the fastest-growing and widespread crimes in the United States, and every minute, 19 more people fall victim to this deeply damaging invasion of privacy. There are many forms of identity theft protection, but none of them are 100% effective, so knowing how to follow up after your identity is compromised is essential.

2. There are many forms of identity theft protection, but
none of them are 100% effective, so knowing how to
follow up after your identity is compromised is essential.

3. Some of you may be wondering what identity theft is, and a
quick review can never hurt – knowing the signs and reacting
quickly is of utmost importance when it comes to saving
essential assets and information. Identity theft is just that: the
illegal and fraudulent acquisition of private personal
information. This information is typically leveraged for financial
gain, but an unprepared victim may lose much more than their
balance.

4. This crucial information isn’t as difficult to access as one
may hope, and employees of companies that process
things like Social Security and bank account information
may be able to illegally gain access
How Does This Information Get Out?

5. Other methods of obtaining this
information include the theft of
electronic devices, mail, bank
records, and more. Most recently,
a new tactic has become
successful: phishing, or simply
asking for the information via
email while posing as a credible,
official entity like a bank, lawyer,
or charity.
Identity theft insurance can help you recover after someone’s
stolen your information, but scam artists are always finding
new victims.

6. One of the most valuable pieces of information an identity thief can
obtain is your Social Security number. Those 9 digits can give
thieves and hackers access to your tax records, but they’re also the
key to your bank account and, in legal matters, your identity – they
can even commit a crime and be arrested under your name, and if
something like that goes unnoticed, it could appear in background
checks.

7. Less subtle identity thieves may go all-out and buy an expensive
sports car, but if you’re keeping an eye on your bank account,
you should notice. Speaking of checking your bank account…Speaking of checking your bank account…

8. • Keep your Social Security card in a safe place at home.
• Take advantage of your annual free credit report.
• Closely monitor bank accounts and loans.
• Don’t place sensitive documents in your mailbox – use a
collection box instead.
• Always shred documents with sensitive information.
Tips for Preventing ID Theft

9. Of course, even the most
careful and cautious people can
fall victim to the heinous crime
of identity theft. While following
the above steps will certainly
lower your risk, having a backup
plan is essential, and every day,
it becomes more valuable.
Identity theft is growing, and it’s
not always possible to prevent
identity theft, so be prepared.

10. • Place a fraud alert on your credit report.
• File a police report.
• Contact your bank and close any accounts that may
have been compromised.
• File a complaint with the FTC.
• Purchase identity theft insurance.
What to Do After ID Theft Has Occurred

11. Identity theft insurance is the best way to prepare yourself for a
world where ID theft is more and more common every day. No
amount of precaution can completely protect you, but with
affordable identity theft insurance from Cost-U-Less, you can rest
assured that help is available.
We’re Here To HelpWe’re Here To Help

12. What do you think? Is Medi-Cal a reliable source
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