CYBERSECURITY experts have shared warning signs about identity theft that could leave you broke and in trouble with the law.
These warning signs can help you stay vigilant and prevent some major damage to you finances and name.
Trevor Cooke, an online privacy expert at EarthWeb, shares the ten key red flags to watch out for below.
Mysterious Charges on Your Credit Card
Look out for unfamiliar charges as these might be hackers testing the validity of stolen information.
"I recommend that you check your purchases at least once per day so that if there are inconsistencies, you will find them immediately," advises Cooke.
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"Even if the charge is small, if you do not recognize it, call your credit card company immediately and file a fraud report."
Sudden Drop in Credit Score
A drastic drop in your credit score without any explanation is a major warning sign that someone might be using your identity to make unauthorized purchases.
It's recommended that you monitor your credit score and set up alerts to be notified of any changes.
Unfamiliar Credit Card Statements
If you receive emails about credit card statements you don't recognize, especially at unexpected times, investigate immediately.
Contact the issuing company to verify the legitimacy of the card and cancel it if fraudulent.
Login Issues with Important Accounts
Hackers often try different passwords on various accounts hoping to gain access.
If you're suddenly locked out of your financial accounts, tax payment portals, or social media, it could be an identity theft attempt.
Suspicious Emails Addressed to a Different Name
Phishing emails are common, but receiving emails where the sender uses the wrong name is a big red flag.
If you suspect your email has been compromised, report fraud and work with your provider to enhance security.
You could also create a new email address and update all your financial accounts, Cooke recommends.
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Missing Important Emails
Bills and financial reports often arrive via email nowadays.
If you stop receiving expected emails about bills, credit score updates, or bank account summaries, it could be a sign that someone has hacked your accounts.
IRS Contacting You About Fraud
Receiving a call from the IRS can be stressful, but if you've been diligent with your finances, such a call could indicate identity theft.
In this case, cooperate with the IRS and follow their instructions to recover your identity.
Keep detailed records of transactions and financial information to share with the IRS if needed, Cooke said.
Denied Online Credit Card Applications
If your application for a new credit card is denied despite having good credit, you may need to dig deeper.
Review your credit card statements, savings accounts, and other financial records for unusual spending patterns, and report any discrepancies.
Duplicate Bills
Receiving duplicate bills for credit cards, mortgages, car payments, or other services is another strong sign of identity theft.
"Any duplicate bills should be flagged and you should contact the respective companies immediately," warns Cooke.
Changes in Online Product Advertisements
Our devices track online activities and show targeted advertisements based on our interests.
However, if you start seeing ads for products you wouldn't normally purchase, it could be a sign of identity theft.
"Although this may be a subtle hint, if you notice advertisements for products that you would not normally purchase like luxury watches or fancy sports cars, then you may have had your identity stolen," said Cooke.
"The advertisements on your devices may be your first sign that your identity has been stolen."
