Identity Theft

Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personally identifying information without your permission to commit fraud or other crimes.  This information could include your name, Social Security number, or credit card number. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) estimates that as many as nine million Americans have their identities stolen each year.

Unemployment Fraud

Unemployment fraud claims are on the rise. If you received unemployment paperwork but did not file a claim or otherwise believe you are a victim of identity theft related to unemployment benefits, below are a few recommended actions from our police department.
  • To report Colorado Unemployment fraud, visit the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment website, click on “I’m an individual reporting identity theft,” and complete the form. You can also call the Colorado Claimant Fraud at 303.318.9035. If you believe the fraud occurred in multiple or separate states, reach out to each state’s labor and employment department individually. 
  • Visit the Federal Trade Commission website to report your identity theft and to get best practices moving forward. Complete their Identity Theft Affidavit form. 
  • File a complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice’s Nation Center for Disaster Fraud by completing their online form or calling 866.720.5721.
  • Reach out to each of the three credit reporting agencies – Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Ask them to put a fraud alert on your account and to freeze your account. 
  • Consider obtaining an IRS Identity Protection PIN, which is a six-digit number that helps prevent thieves from filing federal tax returns in your name. 

Thieves

Identity thieves may rent an apartment, obtain a credit card, or establish a telephone account in your name. You may not find out about the theft until you review your credit report or a credit card statement and notice charges you didn’t make. In some cases, you may not know until you’re contacted by a debt collector.

Lasting Damages

Identity theft is serious. Some victims can resolve their problems quickly. Others spend hundreds of dollars and many days repairing damage to their good name and credit record. Some may lose out on job opportunities. Others can be denied loans for education, housing or cars because of negative information on their credit reports. In rare cases, they may even be arrested for crimes they did not commit.

Taking Action

If you are a victim of identity theft, the links below provide you with valuable information regarding action needed.
Contact all three credit bureaus and have reports flagged, preventing possible damage to credit scores:

If you would like more detailed information, please visit the Federal Trade Commission website.