What to do if you think your identity has been stolen

What to Do If You Think Your Identity Has Been Stolen

If your identity is stolen, it can sometimes be difficult to know where to start. Acting quickly can help reduce the damage and make recovery faster. Here are 6 steps to take if you think your identity has been stolen:

1. Look out for strange charges: If you notice any unusual charges on your bank or credit card statement, contact your bank immediately. Cybercriminals may use your card details to make unauthorized purchases.

2. File a claim: If you have identity theft insurance, file a claim right away. Identity theft insurance can offset any substantial costs involved or help with the legal fees that can result from identity fraud.

3. Change your passwords: Change the passwords on all your online accounts. Otherwise, the identity thieves could potentially access multiple accounts or even lock you out. Secure accounts with strong passwords and two-factor authentication.

4. Contact your bank or lender: If your banking details have been compromised, notify your bank or credit card provider immediately to freeze accounts or cancel cards. The sooner you act, the less damage a cybercriminal can do.

5. Contact the relevant companies: If fraud has occurred on your accounts, follow up with the relevant companies. It’s important to explain the situation to them, close any accounts that were opened, and collect any relevant information before talking to the authorities.

6. Contact CIFAS: Reach out to CIFAS, the UK’s fraud prevention service, for expert advice on securing a refund and next steps.

By following these steps, you can begin to take control and limit the damage caused by identity theft.

Learn more about steps to take on uk.Norton.com 

Norton Benefit Solutions offers a digital wellness benefit that helps empower employees with protection for their identity, devices, and online privacy.