What are common symptoms that might indicate identity theft?

Experiencing denial of credit or finding strange accounts on credit reports are significant indicators of identity theft. When someone’s identity has been compromised, they may find that unauthorized accounts have been opened in their name, or their credit history may reflect inquiries for loans or credit lines that they did not apply for. This disruption in one’s credit report is a red flag, as it suggests that someone else may be using their personal information without authorization. Moreover, being denied credit can also alert a victim that their credit score has been adversely affected by fraudulent activities, prompting further investigation into their accounts and credit history. Monitoring credit reports regularly is crucial because it allows individuals to catch any suspicious activities early and take necessary actions to mitigate the impact of identity theft.