Identity theft, one of the fastest growing crimes in America, occurs when someone obtains your personally identifying or financial information and uses it to acquire credit, merchandise or services for their benefit. It can also occur when a thief uses your credentials in the commission of a crime. Identity theft can ruin your credit and cost you time and money to repair the damage. The New York State Department of State Division of Consumer Protection offers tips on how to respond when your personally identifying information or financial accounts have been compromised. In addition, the Division's Identity Theft Prevention and Mitigation Program provides information and resources to help New Yorkers reduce the risk of identity theft and to assist victims in addressing the consequences of this crime.
Understanding Identity Theft
What is identity theft? How do you know if you've fallen victim?
Protecting Yourself from Identity Theft
Learn how to protect yourself from becoming a victim of identity theft. This includes checking your credit reports regularly; keeping your personal information private; protecting yourself online; and, safeguarding your child's identity.
Dealing with the Damage
Read through the steps to take if you become a victim of identity theft and understand the tools available to assist you.
Data Security Breaches and Identity Theft
The likelihood of becoming a victim of identity theft increases if your personally identifying information is part of a data security breach.