Attorney General Kris Mayes has issued a warning to Arizona residents about the risks of identity theft as Identity Theft Awareness Week begins. The initiative aims to remind individuals to protect their personal and financial information and learn how to prevent fraud.
"Identity theft can happen to anyone," said Attorney General Mayes. "Safeguarding personal sensitive information like your Social Security number, bank pin, and online passwords is the first step to protecting yourself from fraud. My office is here to help if you or your loved ones have been a victim of identity theft."
Identity theft involves unauthorized use of personal or financial details such as names, addresses, credit card numbers, bank accounts, Social Security numbers, or medical insurance accounts for fraudulent activities like opening credit lines or filing fake health insurance claims.
Mayes highlighted several warning signs: unexpected charges on bills, unrecognized withdrawals from bank accounts, receiving bills for unknown accounts, and unfamiliar entries in credit reports.
To mitigate risks, she advised keeping important documents secure and shredding those with personal information before disposal. She also recommended not sharing Social Security numbers unexpectedly and using strong passwords along with two-factor authentication online.
During this week, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) will provide webinars and detailed guidance on preventing identity theft. Suspected cases should be reported to the FTC at IdentityTheft.gov for English assistance or RobodeIdentidad.gov for Spanish assistance.
For those who believe they are victims of consumer fraud, complaints can be filed through the Attorney General's website. Assistance is available by contacting the Phoenix office at (602) 542-5763, Tucson at (520) 628-6648, or toll-free outside these areas at (800) 352-8431.