Which of the following scenarios might indicate that you have been a victim of identity theft?

Identity theft is when someone uses your personal information, like your name or Social Security number, without your permission. Here are some signs that might show you’ve been a victim of identity theft:

1. Strange Bills: You get credit cards or bills for things you didn’t buy. This might mean someone opened accounts using your name.
2. Missing Mail: You stop getting your usual bills or mail. Someone might have changed your address to steal your mail and get your personal information.
3. Weird Bank Statements or Credit Reports: You see things you didn’t buy on your bank statements, or there are accounts you didn’t open on your credit reports. This means someone might be using your money or credit.
4. Trouble Getting Credit: You try to get a loan or a credit card but get turned down unexpectedly, or the interest rates are very high. This could happen if someone damaged your credit by not paying bills they made in your name.
5. Calls About Debts You Don’t Know: You get calls from people saying you owe money that you don’t remember borrowing. This can happen when someone else uses your name to get money.
6. Problems with Your Taxes: You hear from the IRS (tax office) that more than one tax return was filed in your name, or you supposedly earned money from a place you never worked. This means someone may be using your identity to avoid paying taxes or to steal your tax refund.
7. Legal Notices You Don’t Expect: You get a notice about crimes you didn’t do. Sometimes, identity thieves use your name when they get in trouble with the police.
8. Medical Bills You Didn’t Make: You receive bills for doctor visits or treatments you never had, or your health plan says you’ve used up your benefits when you haven’t.

These signs can mean someone is using your personal information wrongly. If you think someone stole your identity, tell your parents or a trusted adult right away. They can help you talk to your bank and put a warning on your credit report to keep your information safe.