You probably know or have heard about someone whose personal information was stolen to file false unemployment claims or credit card applications or to gain access to bank or social media accounts. The consequences of identity theft can be devastating for victims, ranging from having to rebuild a ruined credit history to having trouble renting an apartment or buying a home, obtaining a tax benefit or receiving a loan.

Comptroller DiNapoli’s report, The Increasing Threat of Identity Theft, provides more information on this important issue.

IDENTITY THEFT REPORTS INCREASED 200%
in New York State between 2019 and 2021.

(Source: Federal Trade Commission)

Here are ways to protect yourself from identity theft:

• Leave Social Security cards home; carry only the credit and bank cards you need.
• Avoid giving out personal information on the phone, email or social media.
• Check bank and credit statements and credit reports regularly.
• Shred financial documents when no longer needed.
• Use two-factor authentication for online security.
• Use strong passwords or a password manager; change passwords frequently.
• Use only secure online shopping sites; look for secure URL beginning with “https” (rather than “http”) and a lock icon near browser location field. 
• Don’t click on links received in unsolicited email.

Resources

Federal Resources

Federal Trade Commission (FTC): 
File complaints and create a personal recovery plan.

U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ): 
More information on identity theft.

Internal Revenue Service (IRS):
Links and resources on identity theft and tax-related fraud assistance.

State Resources

Office of the New York State Comptroller: 
Report allegations of fraud involving taxpayer money by calling the Fraud Hotline at 1-888-672-4555, by filing a complaint online, or by mailing a complaint to:

Office of the State Comptroller
Division of Investigations
8th Floor, 110 State Street
Albany, NY 12236

NYS Department of Labor (DOL): 
If you receive official communication from the DOL regarding unemployment benefits for which you did not apply, you can report suspected fraud.

NYS Office of the Attorney General: 
Prosecutes individuals and businesses engaged in fraudulent trade practices and provides information to consumers. For information on identity theft, visit the Office’s Consumer Fraud Bureau’s webpage, or call the Office’s General Helpline at 800-771-7755.

NYS Department of Taxation and Finance: 
Help for tax fraud victims.

NYS Department of State, Division of Consumer Protection: 
Resolves consumer complaints.