Is someone checking your browsing?
This website will appear in your browser history. If you're concerned someone may be monitoring your internet use, consider using a trusted friend's device, a library computer, or your browser's private/incognito mode. You can press Quick Exit or hit Escape at any time to leave this site quickly.
Learn more about staying safe online
Someone uses your personal information to open accounts, take out loans, or incur debts in your name — damaging your credit history and creating financial obligations you didn't agree to.
What You Might Notice
Bills or statements arrive for accounts you didn't open
Credit cards, loans, or services in your name that you didn't apply for.
Your credit score has dropped unexpectedly
Debts you didn't incur are affecting your credit.
Debt collectors contact you about debts you don't recognise
Obligations in your name that aren't yours.
What You Can Do
Check your credit report
You can get a free credit report from Equifax, Experian, or illion.
Report identity theft to IDCARE (1800 595 160)
IDCARE is Australia's national identity and cyber support service.
Place a ban on your credit file
This prevents new credit from being opened in your name.
Report to police
Identity theft and fraud are criminal offences.
Important: This resource provides general information, not personal advice. Every situation is different. The actions suggested here may not be safe in your specific circumstances — particularly if the person causing harm could notice changes to your devices or accounts. Always consider your physical safety first.
If you need personalised support, contact 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or your local specialist domestic violence service. If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
Opening financial accounts, taking on debt, applying for credit, or conducting financial transactions using victim's personal information and identity without consent. Damages victim's credit score, creates legal liability, and may take years to resolve. Often not discovered until victim is denied credit or contacted by collectors.
Credit Monitoring Set up credit monitoring. Request credit reports from all reporting bodies.
SAFE-M-0151
Credit Ban Place credit ban to prevent new applications. Available free for DFV victims.
SAFE-M-0152
Identity Theft Report Report identity theft to national identity support service.
Detection Indicators
ID
Detection Indicator
SAFE-D-0137
Unknown Credit Activity Credit report shows accounts or enquiries not initiated by owner.
SAFE-D-0138
Unknown Service Bills Bills or collection notices for services never subscribed to.
The TFA Matrix is a research framework under active development. Technique classifications, detection methods, and mitigations reflect current understanding and are subject to revision. This framework does not constitute forensic methodology, legal evidence standards, or clinical diagnostic criteria. Practitioners should apply professional judgement appropriate to their discipline and jurisdiction.