Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel recently re-issued alert details for Identity Theft Warning Signs in recognition of Identity Theft Awareness Week to make residents aware of the clues that might mean their identity has been stolen.
A recent study completed by U.S. News and World Report noted that nearly three-fourths (73%) of its respondents said they had experienced one case of identity theft with more than a quarter (27%) saying they faced identity fraud more than once. While 2023’s final numbers are not yet available, in 2022, the Federal Trade Commission received more than 1.1 million reports of identity theft.
Identity theft occurs when someone uses another person’s personal information, such as social security numbers, credit card details, or other sensitive data, without permission to commit fraud or other unlawful activities.
“Identity theft can wreak havoc on our finances, our credit, and our sense of personal data security. Consumers can reduce their risk of falling victim to this widespread and damaging crime by heeding the warning signs,” Nessel said. “I encourage everyone to visit the Michigan Identity Theft Support webpage for resources and guidance.”
The attorney general’s alert recommends paying attention to clues like missing mail, mysterious bank withdrawals, and credit denials. A previously released alert provides the following tips to help consumers reduce their risk of identity theft:
- Charge everything to a credit card. You are most protected against liability for fraudulent charges.
- Shred papers with a device that makes micro cuts. Turn your documents into confetti.
- Consider credit monitoring. Know when someone checks your credit and more.
- Never pay with a personal check. You expose your account, routing number, and your money to anyone who handles the check.
The Michigan Identity Theft Support unit can provide identity theft victims with resources and guidance to help minimize damage caused by this disruptive crime. The Consumer Sentinel Network Data Book contains information the FTC has collected throughout the year on fraud, identity theft, and other consumer protection topics.
To file a complaint with the Attorney General, or get additional information, contact:
Consumer Protection Team
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
517-335-7599
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll-free: 877-765-8388
Online complaint form
