Identity Theft Protection Guide 2026

Identity theft affected 42 million Americans in 2025, with losses exceeding $52 billion. Criminals use stolen identities for credit card fraud, tax fraud, medical identity theft, and more. Here’s how to protect yourself.

Types of Identity Theft

• Financial: Credit card fraud, bank fraud, loan fraud
• Tax: Filing tax returns in your name
• Medical: Using your insurance to receive medical care
• Employment: Using your SSN to get a job
• Criminal: Giving your name during arrest

Identity Protection Services 2026

1. Norton 360 with LifeLock
2. McAfee+ Premium/Advanced
3. IdentityForce
4. Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection