Missouri AG warns consumers as identity theft rises

Attorney General Catherine Hanaway is urging Missouri residents to remain vigilant as identity theft continues to rank among the fastest-growing crimes in the nation. In conjunction with Identity Theft Awareness Week, observed Jan. 26–30, 2026, the Missouri Attorney General’s Office released guidance intended to help consumers prevent identity-related crimes and respond effectively if their personal information is compromised.

Hanaway said the office remains focused on protecting Missourians from identity theft and on assisting victims in repairing the financial and personal harm caused by such crimes. The agency emphasized its dual role in prevention education and post-incident recovery.

Identity theft involves the unauthorized taking, accessing, or use of another person’s personal information, including a name, Social Security number, or credit card number. Offenders may impersonate an existing individual or create a fictitious identity to obtain credit, services, or government benefits. In some cases, stolen information is used to commit fraud or other criminal acts. The Attorney General’s Office identified several major forms of identity theft and outlined recommended responses.

Financial identity theft
• Occurs when personal information is used to obtain credit, goods, or services.
• May involve the theft of a credit or debit card or the unauthorized use of account numbers.
• Victims should request replacement cards, change account numbers, and update passwords and personal identification numbers.
• Additional protective steps are outlined in the office’s consumer checklist.

Medical identity theft
• Occurs when personal information is used to obtain medical care or prescription drugs.
• Victims may receive invoices or collection notices for services they did not receive.
• Individuals should contact the medical provider to dispute the charges and correct inaccuracies in their medical history.
• More information is available through the Federal Trade Commission’s website.

Child identity theft
• Occurs when a child’s Social Security number is fraudulently used to apply for government benefits, open bank or credit card accounts, secure loans or utility services, or rent housing.
• Parents and guardians are encouraged to request a child’s credit report to determine whether misuse has occurred.
• As minors increasingly maintain an online presence through gaming and social media, the FTC provides guidance for discussing online safety with children.

Insurance identity theft
• Occurs when personal information is used to obtain insurance coverage or benefits or to receive health care services or products.
• Auto, property, and health insurance policies may all be affected.
• A policy may be opened using another person’s identification information.
• This form of theft is often connected to medical or financial identity theft.
• Victims may experience higher premiums or difficulty obtaining coverage for themselves and their families.

Driver’s license identity theft
• Occurs when someone obtains a driver’s license using another person’s personal information.
• Victims may lose driving privileges or be unable to renew a license if fraudulent records exist.
• Offenders may accumulate traffic violations that appear on the victim’s driving record.
• Affected individuals should obtain a copy of their driving record from the Missouri Department of Revenue and correct any errors.
• Inaccurate records should be reported to local law enforcement, and a replacement driver’s license should be requested through the department.
• Victims are advised to notify their insurance company and any organization that uses a driver’s license number for identification or verification.
• Law enforcement should also be asked to review records in other states as well as in Missouri.

Social Security identity theft
• Occurs when someone uses another person’s Social Security number to establish a new identity.
• Social Security numbers may be sold on illicit markets, allowing multiple offenders to purchase access to the same information.
• Suspected activity should be reported through the Social Security Administration’s online complaint form or by calling 800-269-0271.

Criminal identity theft
• Occurs when an individual provides another person’s identity while being investigated or arrested for a crime.
• An imposter may give a name and personal information, such as a driver’s license number, date of birth, or Social Security number, often belonging to a friend or relative.
• Victims may face wrongful arrest warrants, false criminal accusations, or denial of employment or a passport.

File a complaint
The Missouri Attorney General’s Office operates a hotline to help consumers recognize and report identity theft. Help is available by calling 800-392-8222. Complaint advocates provide guidance on actions victims should take to protect themselves and begin recovery. Consumers are also encouraged to file reports with the following agencies so records are created at the county, state, and federal levels: