Servicemember Reports About Identity Theft Are Increasing: What You Need to Know

10 minutes ago3 min read

Identity theft is a growing concern in the U.S., and unfortunately, members of the military are not immune to it. In recent years, there has been a noticeable uptick in reports of identity theft among servicemembers, and it's something that needs to be taken seriously. Here’s a closer look at the issue and what you can do to protect yourself.

Why Are Servicemembers Targeted?

Servicemembers are often prime targets for identity theft due to several factors unique to military life:

Frequent Moves: Military personnel are constantly relocating, sometimes across the country or overseas. This can make it challenging to keep track of personal information, making servicemembers vulnerable to fraud.
Shared Information: Military families often live in tight-knit communities, and personal details are sometimes shared more freely than they would be in other settings. This increases the risk of sensitive data falling into the wrong hands.
Deployment: When servicemembers are deployed, their personal information may be left vulnerable. Some may not have access to secure channels for communication or monitoring their accounts while away, making it easier for thieves to strike.
Financial Stress: With deployments, irregular income, and the challenges of transitioning between military and civilian life, some servicemembers might be more susceptible to scams or fraud due to financial strain or lack of awareness.

The Growing Problem

According to reports from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and military-focused organizations, identity theft reports from servicemembers have been steadily increasing in recent years. The rise in online fraud and scams has been a major contributor to this surge. Cybercriminals use phishing emails, fake websites, and other tactics to steal personal data, targeting military personnel who may not have the time or resources to stay on top of these threats.

Another contributing factor is the military’s reliance on digital systems. While these systems are essential for communication and coordination, they also present opportunities for cybercriminals to infiltrate and steal personal data.

Signs You Could Be a Victim

If you're in the military or a military family, it’s essential to stay vigilant. Some common signs of identity theft include:

Unexplained Charges: If you notice unfamiliar transactions on your bank statements or credit card bills, this could be a sign that someone is using your information without permission.
Credit Report Discrepancies: Regularly checking your credit report is one of the best ways to spot fraud. If you see accounts you didn’t open or hard inquiries you didn’t authorize, it’s time to take action.
Denied Services or Loans: If you're suddenly denied credit, loans, or even renting an apartment because of an unfamiliar debt in your name, it’s a major red flag.

What You Can Do to Protect Yourself

Preventing identity theft starts with awareness. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself from becoming a victim:

Monitor Your Accounts: Keep an eye on your bank accounts, credit cards, and credit reports. Regular checks can help you catch fraud early. You can request a free credit report once a year at AnnualCreditReport.com.
Use Strong Passwords and Two-Factor Authentication: Online accounts are prime targets for identity thieves. Using complex passwords and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your personal information.
Be Careful with Personal Information: Be cautious about what personal information you share, both online and offline. Avoid posting sensitive details like your Social Security number, birthday, and account numbers on social media.
Set Up Fraud Alerts: You can request a fraud alert with the credit bureaus, which makes it harder for thieves to open accounts in your name. This will notify creditors to take extra steps in verifying your identity.
Utilize Military Resources: Many military bases offer identity theft protection services to their members. Take advantage of these resources, which often provide monitoring and support in the event of fraud.

What to Do If You Are a Victim

If you suspect you’ve been targeted by identity thieves, it’s crucial to act quickly:

Report it to the FTC: File a report with the Federal Trade Commission through IdentityTheft.gov. They provide a detailed recovery plan and guide you through the next steps.
Notify Your Bank and Creditors: Contact your bank and any creditors about the theft. They can freeze accounts, reverse fraudulent charges, and provide you with next steps.
File a Police Report: In some cases, filing a report with local law enforcement is necessary, especially if the theft has involved significant financial damage.

The rise in identity theft cases among servicemembers is a serious issue that demands attention. While there are many preventative measures you can take, it’s also important to be proactive if you believe your information has been compromised. By staying vigilant and utilizing the resources available to you, you can reduce the risk of becoming a victim and protect your financial future.

If you're a servicemember or military family member, remember: your security is paramount. Take the necessary steps today to safeguard your identity and your finances for tomorrow.