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Protect Yourself from Identity Theft: What to Do if Your Driver’s License Number is Stolen

Your driver’s license number is a critical piece of personal information that can be used to commit various types of fraud. Whether it’s stolen in a data breach or from your wallet, it can wreak havoc on your finances and personal life. In this article, we’ll explore what someone can do with your driver’s license number, and the steps you should take if it gets exposed or stolen.

What Can Someone Do With Your Driver’s License Number?

Scammers can commit a variety of criminal acts using your driver’s license number. Here are five examples:

1. Open Financial Accounts in Your Name

A stolen driver’s license number may enable a scammer to assume your identity and carry out identity theft and fraud such as:

• Opening a bank account
• Setting up a credit account
• Making unauthorized purchases
• Applying for a loan

2. Create Fake IDs

Thieves can use your driver’s license to create a fake driver’s license or another fake ID. With this fake ID, someone can assume your identity to avoid traffic tickets or pretend to be you if they’re caught committing a crime.

3. Sell Your License Number

Some thieves might sell your driver’s license number to other criminals on the dark web, a part of the internet that can’t be accessed by regular search engines.

4. Carry Out Mail Fraud

With your driver’s license number, a crook can change your mailing address and forward your mail to an address where they can pick it up. This can lead to further fraud using your bank statements, credit card statements, and other financial documents.

5. Generate a Synthetic Identity

A thief can combine false and real personal data, such as a driver’s license and a Social Security number, to create a fake identity. This type of fraud is called synthetic identity fraud and can be used to commit various kinds of financial fraud.

What to Do if Your License Number Is Exposed in a Data Breach

If your driver’s license number is exposed in a data breach, take these steps to protect your identity and finances:

• Conduct a background check on yourself to spot any criminal activities that don’t involve you.
• Run a free dark web scan to see if your personal information appears there.
• Check your credit reports from all three credit bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax) for any unauthorized accounts or inquiries.
• Request your driving record from your state’s motor vehicles department to check for any fraudulent activity.
• Update passwords on any accounts that were affected by the data breach.

What to Do if Someone Has Your Driver’s License

If your driver’s license has been stolen or lost, take prompt action to avoid as much damage as you can. Follow these steps:

File a Police Report

The report should list your driver’s license as one of the stolen items, along with anything else that was taken, such as your wallet or purse.

Contact Your State’s Department of Motor Vehicles

The agency can provide instructions on how to replace your license and how to drive legally while you’re waiting for the replacement license.

Set Up a Free Fraud Alert or Free Credit Freeze

You have the right to add a fraud alert or credit freeze to limit access to your credit reports. A fraud alert tells lenders to verify your identity before processing credit card or loan applications in your name. Meanwhile, a credit freeze limits creditors from accessing your credit report.

Monitor Your Credit

Regularly check your credit reports for signs of suspicious activity. Experian offers free credit monitoring that provides alerts whenever there’s a change to your credit report, helping you spot possible identity fraud quickly.

How to Report Identity Theft

If you believe your driver’s license number has been stolen or your driver’s license has been lost or stolen, follow these steps to report identity theft:

• File a report with your local law enforcement agency.
• File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov or call 877-438-4338.
• Place a fraud alert on your credit report. An initial fraud alert lasts one year; an extended fraud alert will remain on your credit reports for seven years.
• Consider freezing your credit. You can freeze and unfreeze your credit report for free at all three credit reporting agencies.
• Contact the fraud department at the credit card issuers, banks, and other places where you have financial accounts.
• Monitor your credit reports and driving record for new signs of identity fraud.

Contact O1ne Mortgage for Your Mortgage Service Needs

At O1ne Mortgage, we understand the importance of protecting your personal information and finances. If you need any mortgage services, don’t hesitate to call us at 213-732-3074. Our team of experts is here to help you navigate the complexities of the mortgage process and ensure your financial security.

Remember, taking prompt action can help you prevent or minimize the damage caused by identity theft. Stay vigilant and protect your personal information to safeguard your financial future.

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