FAQ - Identity Theft

 What is identity theft?
Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personally identifying information, like your name, Social Security number, or credit card number, without your permission, to commit fraud or other crimes.

Who is at risk?
EVERYONE. Careful management of personal information, identification, and passwords can help minimize your risk.

What are the risks?
Victims of identity theft often have to spend their own time and money cleaning up their personal, healthcare and financial records. In the meantime, they may be refused loans, housing or cars, or even get arrested for crimes they did not commit.

How do I protect my personal information?

• Order a copy of your credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus, Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. You can order one free credit report per year from one of the three credit bureaus.
• Make sure that all the information on your credit report is accurate.
• Shred all documents containing personal information. Use either a cross shredder or a micro shredder.
• Do NOT send personal information in an e-mail.
• Make sure online sites are secure when shopping online. Look for https in the address line and/or the padlock icon in the corner of the page that asks you to input your personal information.
• Do NOT keep personal information stored on a computer unless it's encrypted.
• Visit Ball State's Office of Information Security Services website on a regular basis for recent information on protecting your identity.