Identity Theft
Identity theft, a common crime in the U.S., is the disclosure of your personal information to a criminal who pretends to be you.
Identity theft could result in:
- False credit cards being used in your name
- Arrests or criminal records formed by another person using your name
- Your personal information used for illegal purposes
If Your Identification Documents or Social Security Card is Stolen
- Contact your local police office and file a police report.
- Contact the Registry of Motor Vehicles to request a replacement driver's license.
- Contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card and request a lost/stolen warning in your file.
- Contact your credit card company.
- Contact your Mass General Brigham employer if your work ID cards or badges have been lost/stolen.
Protect Your Legal Documents & Identity
Never respond to requests for personal or financial information through phone, email, text message, or social media. Always be suspicious of a caller asking you for access or asking you to enter anything into your internet browser. Do not open an email or click on a link if you do not know the sender.
- Carry your passport only when traveling. Keep your passport in a safe place.
- Use a Massachusetts driver’s license or a Massachusetts Liquor ID as your primary identification.
- Keep only copies of important documents with you (including your I-94, DS-2019, or I-797, and the visa stamp page) and also another set of copies at your home. Carry original documents only when required.
- Get more tips to prevent identity theft.