Elderly Fraud

Identity theft is fraud that assumes a stolen identity to access benefits, resources, or information. Usually, thieves aren't trying to become you but instead gain access to your money, benefits, or credit.

Who Might Steal Your Identity?

Contrary to popular belief, you're more likely to have your identity stolen by those closest to you—friends, family, or coworkers—than by some shadowy hacker. Why? The answer is simple: these people are more likely to have access to you and your important information, and you're more likely to trust them with sensitive details. However, this doesn't mean you should disregard the threat of data breaches and other technological compromises.

How is Your Information Compromised?

Physical Theft:

-          Stealing wallets, purses, or mail (e.g., bank statements, credit card information, tax documents)

-          Taking or copying essential documents during a visit to your home.

-          Rummaging through your trash or the trash at a business.

-          Accessing accounts, they have information on, such as passwords, you may have shared or stolen.

-          Impersonating someone who legally needs your information, like an employer or landlord.

-          Buying personal information from "insiders," such as unscrupulous employees.

Phone Scams:

Scammers may try to get you to provide information over the phone that they can use to steal your identity or money. Examples include:

-          Posing as government officials or police officers requesting money, often through gift cards or wire transfers.

-          Pretending to be interested in an item you have for sale or rent but saying they will send an agent to complete the transaction.

-          Claiming to be from a tech company offering to fix a problem you didn't know you had.

High-Tech Theft:

-          Phishing emails that trick you into giving up login information.

-          Malicious websites designed to look legitimate but install malware on your device.

-          Data breaches that expose your personal information from large companies, agencies, or improperly secured databases (These are often beyond your control).

Preventing Identity Theft:
While you can't completely prevent identity theft, you can reduce the risk and make it more difficult for thieves to succeed.

-          Monitor Your Statements: Check your billing, bank, benefits, and credit card statements monthly. Look for suspicious charges, requests for benefits, or unusual money movements.

-          Shred Important Papers and Cards: Use a cross-cut shredder to destroy bills, credit/debit cards, benefits cards, and any documents with identifying information like your name, Social Security number, or account numbers. Also, shred prescription pill bottle labels, which can be used to refill prescriptions or call in fake requests.

-          Be Careful with Information Sharing: Only share sensitive information with trusted individuals. When dealing with companies or agencies, ask how they protect and dispose of your information. Never give payment card information or Social Security numbers over the phone unless you initiated the call. If someone asks you to verify your information, hang up and contact the organization directly using an official number.

-          Shop and Conduct Business on Secure Websites: Ensure that any site where you enter personal information is secure. Look for the padlock icon in the address bar or verify that the URL starts with “https://”.

Have a Plan:

1.       Prepare an emergency plan for identity theft.

2.       Keep a folder with contact numbers for your bank, Social Security Administration, local police, IRS, credit card companies, and state Attorney General's office.

3.       Consider keeping a secure list of your accounts and benefits for quick reference.

What to Do If Your Identity Has Been Stolen:
Stay calm, but act quickly. The faster you notify the appropriate institutions, the quicker they can stop further losses. Consider these steps:

-          Contact Local Authorities: In Florida, you can file a report where the offense occurred or where you reside. Include statements, debt collection letters, and credit reports. Some organizations may require a police report or case number to dispute charges or receive protection.

-          Notify Your Bank and Credit Card Companies: Report any unauthorized transactions and request new cards if necessary. Your bank or credit card company may also offer additional protection.

-          Report to Credit Bureaus: Contact Equifax, TransUnion, or Experian to report the theft and discuss options like placing a fraud alert or freezing your credit.

-          Contact Benefit Agencies: If you receive Social Security or VA benefits, notify the agencies immediately. They can review recent activity and secure your file.

-          Alert the IRS: If someone has filed a tax return in your name, report it to the IRS immediately.

-          File a Complaint with the FTC: Visit IdentityTheft.gov to file a complaint and begin recovery steps.

-          Consult the Florida Attorney General's Office: Visit their website for additional resources and information on identity theft.

Once your information is online, it's nearly impossible to remove it. The best defense is a proactive approach: be cautious with your personal information and have a plan before anything happens.