How Can Someone Change Your Address Without You Knowing?
One of the most common identity theft crimes is address fraud. It is an easy way for criminals to hijack your mail and steal personal information such as your social security number or credit card information. In some cases, identity thieves use this to open new accounts in your name and make fraudulent charges.
In fact, many people do not realize they have been the victim of this type of fraud until it is too late and they have been notified by their banks and financial institutions. If you have been a victim of this crime, here are some things you can do to protect yourself from being another identity theft statistic.
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Check Your Postal Records and Credit Reports
It is not uncommon for someone to change your address without you knowing. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including identity theft, harassment, or even legal matters. If you notice any unusual activity with your mail, contact the Post Office and your bank to get a better idea of what is going on.
You Have Sent or Received Unauthorized Mail
If you have been a victim of identity theft, it is likely that you will be receiving suspicious mail. This can include threatening letters, invoices, or other documents that are not from a legitimate source. The best way to prevent this is to ensure you do not send or receive mail from people or businesses that you know are not legitimate.
Change Your Postal Service Mailbox
You may want to consider changing your address with your local post office to avoid getting unwanted or unauthorized mail. This will help you to keep your sensitive documents safe. You can also place a vacation hold on any mail that is sent to your home.
Be Wary of Online Applications That Don’t Require Verification
The United States Postal Service (USPS) makes an effort to curb false address changes by sending a confirmation letter that requires you to verify and document your move. However, some identify thieves have found ways around this process by submitting a change-of-address form through the mail.
These fraudulent changes are often used by identity thieves to obtain credit cards and loan accounts in your name. This can cause major damage to your credit and finances, so it is important to be aware of these scams.
If you have noticed any unusual activity with your mail, call the Post Office or your bank to confirm that there is no fraud taking place. If you believe you have been the victim of this type of identity theft, file a complaint with your local police department and let them know of the crime so that they can take appropriate action.
Aura’s top-rated identity theft protection monitors all of your most sensitive information and online accounts for signs of identity theft. If a Snapchat scammer tries to access your account, Aura will alert you and help you to take action before it is too late.
