Identity Theft

Identity theft is one of the main motives of cybersecurity attacks, it is the deliberate use of someone else’s identity, usually to use credit. It can happen online, from discarded bank statements, bills, receipts, or old hard drives.

Recognize

• Phishing emails are commonly used to scam account information or install malware on your devices.
• Be suspicious of any unexpected emails or phone calls.
• Do not click on links that you are unfamiliar with.

Respond

• Immediate action is crucial in cases of identity theft. If Identity theft is suspected, do not wait to respond.
• Contact any credit card issuers and financial institutions with whom you have an account to temporarily freeze all transactions.
• Contact the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, & TransUnion) to have them flag your file with a fraud alert.

Report

• If you suspect you are a victim of identity theft, contact public safety at 585-475-3333 immediately to begin an investigation.

These steps will ensure that your accounts are secure from unauthorized use until your institutions can rectify the situation by providing new account numbers, new cards, etc.

• The MISUSED website is created by the U.S. Department of Education as a resource for college students to learn about identity theft. You can learn about how scholastic identity theft occurs, how to reduce your risk, and what you should do if you discover you're a victim.
• Phishing - One of the most common online methods for identity theft.

• Federal Trade Commission - Recover From Identity Theft (external)
• Sallie Mae - How to fix your credit report (external)
• The College Investor - Student Loan Identity Theft (external)