Maybe you noticed a charge you don't recognize. Or your credit score suddenly dropped.
Identity theft doesn't always mean someone opens a new account in your name. In many cases, criminals gain access to your existing accounts using stolen passwords, malware, or personal information.
Here's what to watch for, what to do first, and how to better protect yourself in the future.
Signs your identity may have been stolen
Identity theft happens when someone uses your personal information to commit fraud. Sometimes the warning signs are obvious. Other times, they're easy to miss.
Identity theft signs to watch for:
• Charges you didn't make
• Bills for accounts or services you don't recognize
• Credit applications you didn't submit
• Unexpected changes to your credit score
• Calls from debt collectors about accounts you never opened
• An IRS notice that a tax return has already been filed in your name
Identity theft doesn't just affect your finances. It can also involve tax fraud, medical information, government benefits, or even your child's identity.
What to do when you're suspicious of identity theft
Secure your accounts
If you think your identity has been compromised, don't panic. Start by securing your accounts.
Contact Numerica
Call 800.433.1837 right away. We'll help you review recent account activity, flag suspicious transactions, and protect your accounts.
Change exposed passwords
Update passwords for your email, financial accounts, and any other accounts that may have been affected. Choose strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication whenever possible.
Review recent account activity
Review your recent transactions, credit cards, and linked accounts. Report unfamiliar charges as soon as you spot them.
Place a fraud alert
Contact Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion to place a fraud alert on your credit file. You only need to contact one credit bureau. They'll notify the other two for you.
A fraud alert requires lenders to take extra steps to verify your identity before opening new credit in your name.
Recovery from fraud & identity theft
Once your accounts are secure, take a few additional steps to protect yourself from further fraud.
Review your credit reports
Request your free credit reports through AnnualCreditReport.com and review them for unfamiliar accounts or inquiries.
Freeze your credit
A credit freeze helps prevent new accounts from being opened in your name. Unlike a fraud alert, you'll need to place a freeze individually with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
A credit freeze won't affect your credit score and can be lifted whenever you need to apply for new credit.
Report identity theft
File a report with the Federal Trade Commission. You'll receive a personalized recovery plan and helpful resources.
If tax fraud is involved, contact the IRS. In some situations, filing a police report may also be helpful when disputing fraudulent accounts or insurance claims.
How identity theft happens
Identity thieves use many different tactics to steal personal information or take over existing accounts, including:
• Data breaches
• Phishing scam emails and text messages
• Fake websites and imposter scams
• Malware that steals passwords or banking information
• Outdated devices that no longer receive security updates
• Lost or stolen documents
Often, identity theft isn't the result of one event. Criminals collect small pieces of information over time until they have enough to access your accounts or impersonate you.
Scammers count on messages that look convincing. Learn how to spot the warning signs before you click in How to spot imposter scams.
Protect yourself every day
A few simple habits can go a long way.
• Use strong, unique passwords for every account.
• Turn on multi-factor authentication whenever it's available.
• Be cautious of unexpected emails, texts, and phone calls asking for personal information.
• Never share a one-time passcode. Numerica will never ask you for a one-time verification code by phone, email, or text.
• Avoid accessing sensitive accounts on public Wi-Fi. If you need to, use a trusted VPN.
• Keep your computer, phone, and apps updated with the latest security patches.
• Use reputable antivirus software and keep it up to date.
• Review your account activity regularly.
Numerica also offers tools to help you stay in control.
Can't find your debit or credit card? Use Card Freeze in Online Banking or the Numerica Mobile App to temporarily lock your card until you find it.
Free fraud text alerts notify you of suspicious activity so you can respond quickly if something doesn't look right.
We're here to help
If you think your identity has been stolen, or something just doesn't seem right, don't wait.
Call 800.433.1837, visit your nearest branch, or contact us through Digital Banking.
Whether you have questions about suspicious activity, a data breach, or the next steps after identity theft, we're here to help protect your financial well-being.
Reviewed by Numerica’s fraud and security team
Updated April 2026
Would you know if a fraud alert was real? Learn what to expect from a genuine Numerica fraud text alert and how to respond safely in "Fraud text alerts: What to expect"
