The most recent Equifax breach led to many customers losing their private information to hackers.  Identity theft is no laughing matter and many people’s financial stability has been ruined due to this theft. If you’re worried about protecting your private information, here are a few tips to protect your private information from being stolen and used fraudulently.

Protect Your Social Security Number

Do not keep your Social Security card in your wallet, car, or other easily accessible areas. Do not give anyone your number unless you absolutely have to. If your wallet is stolen or your car is broken into, it will be very easy for a thief to use your card fraudulently. Keep your card in a safe location that will be hard to locate for potential thieves. Other ways to protect your information include shredding documents of mail that have your private information on them, installing firewalls and virus protection on your computer, and protecting online accounts with complicated passwords.

Watch Out for Changes in Your Accounts

If you’ve started to receive late bank statements or bank statements from accounts you don’t remember opening, contact the sender. This may be a sign that your identity is being used fraudulently. Review your bank accounts and other statements monthly to keep track of any strange activity. In addition, review your credit score information at least once a year and watch out for any changes.

What if My Identity is Stolen?

If you’ve noticed strange activity in your bank accounts or credit score, contact the Federal Trade Commission and report your suspicions. You may also report the information to the police, but you may be requiring to provide information such as whether you knew the thief, if the thief used your name when talking to the police, or if a creditor requires a police report. If you are a victim of medical fraud, you can also contact Medicare’s fraud office. Tax identity theft should be reported to the Internal Revenue Service.

If you’re unsure about your identity theft case, contact an experienced attorney. The lawyers at CounselOne will look over your case and determine the best options for you. Contact our experienced law team today.