How Does Identity Theft Happen?

Identity theft occurs when someone steals personal information to impersonate another person. This can happen through various means, including data breaches, lost or stolen possessions, malware, unsecured browsing, phishing, and card skimming. Even friends or family members can sometimes misuse your personal information without your consent.

What Can Identity Thieves Do With Your PII?

Personally Identifiable Information (PII) can be used by identity thieves in numerous ways. They can sell your PII on the dark web, take over your accounts, use your accounts without permission, apply for new accounts, get medical procedures, file fraudulent tax returns, and apply for government benefits. The more pieces of PII they obtain, the easier it is for them to commit various types of identity fraud.

How to Protect Your Personally Identifiable Information

Protecting Your PII Online

• Create unique and strong passwords for all your accounts.
• Enable multifactor authentication (MFA).
• Install the latest updates for your devices.
• Avoid logging into accounts on public Wi-Fi networks.
• Learn to spot and avoid phishing emails.

Protecting Your PII Offline

• Never carry your Social Security card in your wallet.
• Add passwords to all your devices.
• Retrieve mail from your mailbox promptly.
• Shred documents containing PII before disposal.
• Do not respond to unsolicited requests for PII via text or phone.
• Request a free Identity Protection PIN from the IRS.

What to Do if Your PII Is Compromised

If your PII is compromised, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself and detect signs of identity fraud:

• Regularly check your account statements.
• Look for unexpected statements, bills, or application rejection letters.
• Add transaction or balance notifications to your accounts.
• Sign up for free credit monitoring.
• Freeze your credit or place a fraud alert.

If you suspect identity theft, notify the Federal Trade Commission using IdentityTheft.org, your local police department, and the organization where the fraud occurred.

See if Your PII Is Already on the Dark Web

Data breaches have compromised many people’s PII. You can check if your SSN, email, or phone number is on the dark web with a free dark web scan. Programs like Experian IdentityWorksSM can also help monitor various databases for your information and alert you if your PII is found online.

Contact O1ne Mortgage for Your Mortgage Service Needs

At O1ne Mortgage, we understand the importance of protecting your personal information. If you have any mortgage service needs, don’t hesitate to call us at 213-732-3074. Our team of experts is here to help you every step of the way.