What is identity theft protection, and why is it important to protect yourself?

Read Time: 3 Min

Curious how you can help protect yourself and your family from identity theft? We have some tips and information on how you can help protect your identity.

Your identity is valuable, and fraudsters are constantly trying to get your information in different ways. The following precautions can help protect your identity and your money.

How common is identity theft?

Identity theft is more common than you might assume. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) most recently reported that more than $1 million reports of identity theft were received through their IdentityTheft.gov website. Consumers also report losing more than $10 billion to fraud†. Such staggering numbers can seem overwhelming, but taking precautionary measures can help you  protect your identity and you money.

How can I help protect my identity?

Protecting your identity starts with you. Here are a few tips on how you can help keep your information safe, especially online and digitally.

  • Use Strong Passwords and Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Create complex passwords and activate MFA on your accounts to add an extra layer of security.
  • Monitor Your Financial Accounts Regularly: Keep a close eye on your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions.
  • Be Cautious with Personal Information: Share your personal details sparingly and only with trusted people or organizations.
  • Secure Your Devices and Networks: Ensure your devices are protected with up-to-date security software, and avoid using unsecured Wi-Fi networks.
  • Consider Identity Monitoring Services: Use services that alert you to suspicious activity involving your personal information. Lean more about Huntington alerts.

Help Protect Children from Identity Theft

Children are often targets of identity theft because their credit histories are clean. Fraudsters can use a child's Social Security number to open accounts or commit fraud without detection for years.

  • Keep your child's Social Security number and personal information private
  • Monitor their credit report periodically
  • Monitor their internet usage. Find more tips in our guide.

What to Do if Your Identity is Compromised

If you're a victim of identity theft, it's important to act quickly. While it can take a while before everything gets back to normal, taking smart, deliberate actions can help you get your identity back. Read more in Huntington's guide to Rebuilding Your Identity.

The threat of identity theft can feel overwhelming, but small steps can make a big difference to help safeguard your information and finances.


Related Content

Saving Money
Read Time: 4 Min
How to Save for Multiple Financial Goals

It can be hard to prioritize which financial goals to save for first, and how to plan to save for more than one goal at a time. Find out how to save for multiple goals with Huntington.

February 11, 2025
Investing & Retirement
Read Time: 4 Min
Could micro investing make sense for you?
New tech makes it easier to invest a little at a time, automatically.
January 21, 2025

† As Nationwide Fraud Losses Top $10 Billion, FTC Steps Up Efforts to Protect the Public. FTC.gov/news

The information provided in this document is intended solely for general informational purposes and is provided with the understanding that neither Huntington, its affiliates nor any other party is engaging in rendering financial, legal, technical, or other professional advice or services, or endorsing any third-party product or service. Any use of this information should be done only in consultation with a qualified and licensed professional who can take into account all relevant factors and desired outcomes in the context of the facts surrounding your particular circumstances. The information in this document was developed with reasonable care and attention. However, it is possible that some of the information is incomplete, incorrect, or inapplicable to particular circumstances or conditions. NEITHER HUNTINGTON NOR ITS AFFILIATES SHALL HAVE LIABILITY FOR ANY DAMAGES, LOSSES, COSTS OR EXPENSES (DIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, SPECIAL, INDIRECT OR OTHERWISE) RESULTING FROM USING, RELYING ON OR ACTING UPON INFORMATION IN THIS DOCUMENT EVEN IF HUNTINGTON AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES HAVE BEEN ADVISED OF OR FORESEEN THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES, LOSSES, COSTS OR EXPENSES.