12 signs of identity theft (and how to protect your loved ones)

If you’re juggling care for your parents while managing your own family and finances, identity theft might not be the first thing on your mind. But it should be near the top.

Why? Because identity theft is easy to miss. Sometimes it starts small: a piece of mail that never arrives, or an unexpected charge on a statement. Catching it early can make all the difference, especially for senior loved ones who may not spot the warning signs themselves.

This guide walks you through what identity theft is, how it happens, the signs to look for, and what to do if it affects you or someone you care about.

What is identity theft, and how does it happen?

Identity theft is when someone uses your personal information (like your Social Security number, Medicare ID, or banking details) without permission. Their goal is usually to access money, benefits, or accounts that don’t belong to them.

Types of identity theft include:

• Financial theft. Opening credit cards or draining bank accounts.

• Medical fraud. Using your insurance or Medicare benefits.

• Tax fraud. Filing a fake tax return in your name.

• Government benefit fraud. Stealing Social Security, disability, or other aid.

• Criminal identity theft. Using your identity when getting arrested.

Older adults may be especially vulnerable because they often deal with multiple providers, government agencies, and sensitive paperwork, all of which are targets for scammers.

12 warning signs of identity theft

Some of the most common signs of identity theft are easy to overlook. Watch out for these seemingly insignificant things that could be critical red flags.  

1. Unfamiliar charges on bank or credit card statements

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Even minor charges you don’t recognize, especially from stores you’ve never heard of, should raise an eyebrow. Thieves often start with a low-dollar “test” to see if anyone’s watching. If it doesn’t look familiar, take a closer look and alert your bank or credit card provider.

2. Bills or mail stop arriving

If your loved one’s mailbox seems quieter than usual (no bills, no bank statements, not even junk mail), that could be a sign that something’s off. Sometimes, identity thieves change the mailing address to get their hands on personal information.

3. New accounts or credit inquiries you didn’t initiate

A letter about a new credit card or a “welcome” email from a company you don’t use is a sign someone may have used your information to open an account. If it wasn’t you or your loved one, it’s time to act.

4. Debt collectors call about unfamiliar charges

Getting a call about money you “owe,” but have never heard of, can be a sign that someone used your name to open a credit card or take out a loan. If you get one of these calls, don’t panic. Ask questions and write everything down. But don’t divulge any personal information.

5. Credit is denied unexpectedly

If you have a good credit history and are still denied for a card or loan, something could be affecting your score without your knowledge, such as financial fraud or a new account you didn’t open. Review your credit report to identify any discrepancies or errors.

6. Your tax return is rejected or delayed

If you file your taxes and get a notice that a return has already been submitted under your name, it could mean someone beat you to it. Tax identity theft can delay your refund and cause significant stress, particularly for older adults.

7. Medical bills or Medicare statements for services you didn’t receive

If a bill appears for a doctor’s visit, a test, or equipment your loved one never used, it could be a sign of identity theft. Fraudsters sometimes use stolen Medicare or insurance information to get care or prescriptions. It’s always worth calling to get more details.

8. Suspicious activity alerts from your bank or app

If your bank sends out a fraud alert or flags a suspicious purchase, don’t dismiss it. Even if it’s a charge you “sort of” recognize, it’s better to call them directly and confirm rather than risk letting something slide. 

9. Your login info stops working

If you or your loved one suddenly can’t log in to a bank, insurance, or email account and haven’t changed the password, it could be a sign that someone else has. This is often the first sign that someone’s trying to take control of your information.

10. Sudden drop in your credit score

If your score takes a dive and you haven’t made any big financial moves, that’s cause for concern. New accounts, missed payments, or maxed-out cards could all be happening in your name without your knowledge.

11. You stop receiving government benefits

If benefits suddenly stop or you get a notice about a change you didn’t make, that’s not something to put off. It could mean someone is rerouting payments or has filed for aid using your information. For older adults who rely on these benefits, even a short delay can have significant consequences.

12. A gut feeling that something’s off

Sometimes you can’t quite explain it; something just doesn’t feel right. Perhaps your parent is acting a little strangely about a bill, or a call from “Medicare” has raised concerns. If you believe something is wrong, take action. That feeling is often what catches identity theft early.

How to prevent identity theft (for you and your loved ones)

There’s no foolproof way to prevent identity theft, but small habits add up, especially if you’re helping a senior loved one stay protected. Here's how to protect yourself and your loved ones:

• Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication on all accounts.

• Shred personal documents, including Medicare and insurance statements.

• Set up transaction alerts on financial accounts and apps.

• Freeze your credit if you’re not planning to open new accounts soon.

• Review statements and credit reports regularly, or help your loved one do it.

• Be careful about sharing personal info over the phone, even with “official” sounding callers.

What to do if you spot identity theft

If you think you have been a victim of identity theft, don’t panic; however, it’s essential to act right away. Here’s what to do if you suspect identity theft:

• Start by reporting the theft to the FTC at IdentityTheft.gov.

• Put a credit freeze or fraud alert with the three credit bureaus.

• Contact any institutions involved, such as banks, Medicare, and credit card companies.

• File a police report if needed, especially for benefits or Medicare-related fraud.

• Keep records of all calls and correspondence. Take screenshots and save emails.

• Support your loved one emotionally. It’s common to feel overwhelmed or ashamed. Reassurance helps!

Identity theft and older adults: What to watch for

Seniors may not notice the warning signs or be hesitant to speak up. Here’s what to watch for if you’re caring for a senior loved one:

• Confusion over unexpected bills or missed payments

• Calls or letters from Medicare about services they don’t recognize

• Anxiety after receiving calls from “government” agencies requesting personal information

• Shame about falling for a scam or not catching something sooner

You can support your loved one by going through bills or statements together, setting up alerts, opening joint accounts, or helping them check their credit report. And sometimes, just having a simple conversation about what to watch for can go a long way.

FAQs

What’s the most common "first sign" of identity theft?

Usually, it’s a small charge or transaction you don’t recognize. These can escalate quickly.

How can I spot signs of identity theft on my credit report?

Look for unfamiliar accounts, incorrect personal information, or credit checks from companies you don’t know.

What are some lesser-known signs that might indicate identity theft?

Mail going missing, strange medical charges, or benefits being redirected are often overlooked.

What specific signs should seniors watch for related to Medicare or health insurance fraud?

Unexpected claims, duplicate charges, or statements for equipment or services they never received.

Catching identity theft early and knowing what to do next can save you and your loved ones a significant amount of stress, time, and financial trouble. And when you need backup, Greenlight’s Family Shield is here to help. It includes tools like real-time alerts, identity theft monitoring, and up to $1 million in coverage to help with recovery costs**. Designed with caregiving families in mind, Family Shield makes it easier to stay ahead of fraud and protect the people you care about most.

**Premium monitoring services are offered by Experian.