What are the signs of identity theft?

Identity theft means someone uses your personal information, such as your name or Social Security number, to open accounts or buy things as you. Most people learn about it from a small oddity, not a dramatic alert. These are the signs the FTC points to.

Accounts you don't recognise

The FTC says accounts in your name that you don't recognise could be a sign of identity theft, and tells you to get and review your credit reports. Check inquiries too: the FTC notes that a new cell phone plan or utility account can show up as an inquiry rather than an account, so look for inquiries you don't recognise.

Bills and charges that don't add up

Charges for things you didn't buy, or an unexpected bill, can be a sign. So can a bill that stops showing up. The FTC says that could mean someone changed your billing address, so keep track of what you owe and when it's due.

Medical debt you don't recognise

Medical debt collection notices on your credit report that you can't explain can point to medical identity theft, where someone uses your details to get care.

What it looks like in practice

You check your credit report before applying for a loan and find a store card you never opened. The address on it is one you've never lived at. That mismatch is the sort of detail worth chasing.

Why it matters

The sooner you spot it, the less time anyone has to run up debts in your name. Details that thieves use, like your address, date of birth and phone number, are often easy to find on people-search sites.

Signs vs. the cause

These signs show theft is happening. They don't show how it happened. A breach, a phishing message or a listing on a data broker site can all be the source. For what the term itself means, see identity theft.