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If prevention works like a lock, identity theft detection can be compared to an alarm. If someone opens a new account in your name, it should show up on your credit report.
Learn the Signs of Identity Theft – Have You Had Something Like This Happen?
You get a phone call or letter telling you that you have been approved or denied credit for accounts that you never requested.
You no longer receive your credit card statements, or you notice that some of your mail seems to be missing. Your credit card statement includes charges for things you know you never bought.
A collection agency tells you they are collecting for an account you never opened.
If you notice anything like this, it's possible you've become a victim of identity theft.


But What if Nothing is Obviously Wrong? How Can I be Sure I'm Not a Victim?
The FTC (Federal Trade Commission) says the average victim of identity theft is unaware of the problem for 12 months. You don't want to let 12 months go by before discovering you're a victim.

Be Sure You're Not a Victim. Check Your Credit Report.
The Federal Trade Commission says "One of the best ways to catch identity theft is to regularly check your credit record."
When anyone applies for credit in your name, it will show up in your credit report. You just need to know how to obtain your credit report and how often to get it.

Free Credit Reports are Now Available for Every Region of the U.S.
As of September 1, 2005, everyone in the U.S. has access to free credit reports from www.annualcreditreport.com. To learn more you can search the “Fact Act.”

Credit Monitoring is Another Option

Some of the providers referenced in this site offer credit monitoring services as well. Please be sure to carefully review the comparison chart to select the provider who’s right for you.

Here are Some Signs of Identity Theft:
1.
New accounts and debts that you can’t explain
2.
Inaccurate information on your credit reports
3.
Missing bills; bills that don’t arrive on time (the thief takes over your accounts and changes your billing address)
4.
Bill collection agencies contacting you for overdue debts
5.
Calls or letters from debt collectors regarding transactions you didn’t originate
6.
Credit cards you never applied for
7.
Denied credit for an unknown reason
8.
Problems with your credit history for no apparent reason

Your credit history can hold up or prevent approval for any loan. Unfortunately, many victims learn their identity has been stolen after the damage has been done. Therefore preventing is crucial. With this in mind, regularly monitoring your personal information is highly recommended.