Identity Theft: Signs to Watch For and Steps That Can Help Protect Your Information

Identity theft rarely announces itself. For many individuals and families, it shows up quietly: an unfamiliar charge, or a letter about an account they never opened. Then it takes real time and energy to resolve. We’ve seen firsthand how disruptive that can be, and it’s one reason we believe a few proactive measures are worth considering.

Below, we walk through some common signs of identity theft and a few practical strategies that can help safeguard your personal information.

The Threat

Identity fraud claimed $47 billion in 2024, up from the prior year. Recognizing the signs early may help you respond before a small problem becomes a larger one. Key indicators include:

Unexpected bills or charges
Inaccuracies in your credit reports
Accounts opened without your authorization

If you notice any of these, a few measures may be important in managing the risk: placing fraud alerts, freezing your credit reports, and promptly reporting suspicious activity.¹

What the Numbers Show

The financial impact of identity theft can extend well beyond the dollar amount of the loss itself, which averages $497 across all types of fraud. Victims often go through extended periods of stress and uncertainty. The aftermath can also take other forms, including denied applications for new accounts, credit complications, and incidents that go underreported.²

Steps to Take

Identity theft protection services can provide useful insight into fraud, including early detection of potential threats. These services use technology to monitor online platforms, which may help individuals keep closer watch over their identities and limit fraudulent activity.

Other steps worth considering:

Use security software on all of your digital devices.
Set your phone apps to update automatically, which may help protect against security threats.
Turn on multi-factor authentication on your devices.
Back up your data to an external hard drive or a cloud-based service.

A Steady, Long-Term Approach

Identity theft is a real part of today’s digital landscape, but protecting yourself doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Taking a proactive approach is a good first step. By staying informed, watching for the warning signs, and considering identity theft prevention services that fit your situation, you can help strengthen your defenses in an increasingly connected world.

Protecting your personal information is one part of protecting what you’ve built. If you’d like to talk through how this fits into your broader financial picture, we’re here when you’re ready.

This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information, and provided by Twenty Over Ten. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.

Disclosure: Educational and informational content only. Not personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Advisory services offered through St. Johns Asset Management (“SJAM”), a registered investment adviser. Securities offered through J.W. Cole Financial, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Individual circumstances vary. Past performance is not indicative of future results.