Identity Theft and Fraud - Saint Paul College

Illustration of Identity Theft and Security

Learn how to protect your identity and stay ahead of fraud with simple, proactive steps.

Identity theft occurs when someone uses another person’s private information to commit fraud. Identity thieves often apply for loans, open bank accounts and credit cards, or access services in other people’s names.

Explore Prevention Tips

If you suspect identity theft or fraud, act quickly. Report it to the FTC, file a police report, and notify your financial institutions.

These steps help protect your records and restore your identity.

Get Help & Report Fraud

Safeguard Your Personal Information

Avoid sharing sensitive data like your Social Security number, passwords, or banking info unless absolutely necessary. Shred documents and be mindful of what you post online.

Strengthen Your Digital Security

Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication. Keep your devices and software updated to reduce vulnerabilities.

Monitor Your Accounts Regularly

Review your bank and credit card statements for unfamiliar charges. Set up alerts and check your credit report annually from each major bureau.

Phishing Awareness

Be cautious of emails, texts, or messages that try to trick you into sharing personal information. Look out for suspicious links, urgent language, or unfamiliar senders.

Use Secure Connections

Ensure your internet connection is secure, especially when accessing sensitive information. Consider using a VPN when on public networks.

Connect to VPN

Report Concerns

If you have any concerns about the privacy or security of your data, report them immediately to the IT Service Desk. Early reporting helps prevent further risk.

Contact the Service Desk

Information for Victims of Identity Theft

Report the Fraud

If you think you’ve become the victim of identity theft, report it immediately to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

File a report with the FTC

File an identity theft report* with your local law enforcement center.

This report will be helpful as you dispute the loans that were taken out under your name and are required to request that any enrollment in your name be dropped from Saint Paul College’s records.

Filing a false claim of identity theft is a crime punishable by law. Minn Statute 609.506

Also consider reporting to federal agencies.

Contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center (FSAIC) at 1-800-433-3243 to report that your FSA account has been compromised.

This report will be helpful as you dispute the loans that were taken out under your name and is required to request that any enrollment in your name be dropped from Saint Paul College’s records.

Submit a Saint Paul College Tuition Appeal

Include a copy of the FTC or police report (the complete report, not just the case number) and other supporting information.

This can be dropped off in Admissions and Financial Aid – Room 1300 or emailed to student.records@saintpaul.edu.

Monitor and Freeze Your Credit

Place a fraud alert on your credit reports.

Contact the major credit bureaus to place a “fraud alert” in your file to require creditors to contact you before they open new accounts in your name:
Equifax: (800) 525-6285
TransUnion: (800) 680-7289
Experian: (888) 397-3742

Consider freezing your credit.

You can “freeze” your credit report, which blocks the credit bureaus from sharing your information with potential creditors. You may temporarily “thaw” the freeze if you want to open a new account or apply for credit.

Monitor your accounts regularly.

Check your credit card, bank accounts, and credit reports regularly for fraudulent use. Under federal law, Minnesota residents can obtain a free credit report once a year from each national credit bureau.

Minnesota Attorney General Resources

Student Services

Your security matters.