Identity Theft – How to protect yourself

Public Service Announcement

Identity Theft – How to protect yourself

The Department of Community and Government Services’ Consumer Affairs Section cautions Nunavummiut of identity theft. Identity theft is when someone uses another person’s identity to obtain credit from banks, steal money from existing accounts, apply for loans, or file for bankruptcy.

Identity theft may involve credit card fraud, bank or collection agency calls about unknown debt, and mail missing from Canada Post. The following recommendations may help minimize the chance of becoming a victim of identity theft:

• Store identification documents in a safe place.
• Shred documents you no longer need if they contain your personal information.
• Avoid giving out your credit card information, especially over the phone.
• Immediately report missing credit or debit cards.
• Never give personal information to strangers.

If you become a victim of identity theft:

• Call your bank and local RCMP detachment immediately.
• Place a credit fraud alert on your credit report by contacting Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion.
• Contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or www.antifraud.ca
• To replace ID cards, contact the appropriate office.
• For missing mail, contact Canada Post.

For further information regarding identity theft, or to report an incident of an identity theft contact Consumer Affairs at ConsumerProtection@gov.nu.ca or 1-866-223-8139.

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Media Contact:

Hala Duale
Communications Specialist
Community and Government Services
867-975-5406
hduale@gov.nu.ca