As Identity Theft Awareness Week begins (January 27-31), Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza highlights the importance of protecting personal information. Identity theft involves stealing sensitive data, such as Social Security numbers or bank details, for financial gain. Warning signs include unexplained charges, unfamiliar accounts, or denied credit.
Mendoza advises regular monitoring of bank and health statements, avoiding unknown calls, and safeguarding personal details online. She also stresses shredding sensitive documents, being cautious at ATMs and gas pumps, and using strong passwords with two-factor authentication.
Free credit reports are available annually from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion, which also offer credit freezes and fraud alerts.
Victims can report identity theft via the Illinois Attorney General’s hotline (866-999-5630) or visit IdentityTheft.gov.