Identity theft involves someone using personal information like a name, Social Security number, or bank account information without permission to commit fraud or theft. Common types of identity theft include credit card fraud, phone or utility fraud, bank fraud, and employment-related fraud. Victims often don't discover the theft for over a year. To reduce risk, people should shred financial documents before throwing them out, be cautious about sharing personal information, and monitor bank statements and credit reports for suspicious activity. If identity theft is suspected, victims should file a police report and contact credit bureaus and the Federal Trade Commission for assistance.

1. “ WHEN BAD THINGS HAPPEN TO YOUR GOOD NAME”

3. Types of ID Theft 8% Government Benefits Fraud 5% Loan Fraud 13% Employment-related fraud 18% Bank Fraud 19% Phone or Utilities Fraud 28% Credit Card Fraud

6. Are you at risk? Test your “Identity Quotient”: Take the test & see what your score means.

24. What if I become a victim?

29. Federal Trade Commission’s ID Theft Hotline 1-877-438-4338 US Postal Inspection Service 1-800-275-8777 Social Security Administration 1-800-772-1213

32. What can you do to avoid becoming a victim of identity theft?

38. For more information, contact: Isaac B. Chappell, Jr. Regional Extension Agent 1702 Noble Street, Suite 108 Anniston, AL 36201 Phone: (256) 237-1621 www.aces.edu [email_address]