
ID Watchdog - Detailed Review
Privacy Tools

ID Watchdog - Product Overview
Overview of ID Watchdog
ID Watchdog is a comprehensive identity theft protection service offered by Equifax, one of the major credit bureaus in the U.S. Here’s a brief overview of its primary function, target audience, and key features:Primary Function
ID Watchdog is designed to protect individuals and their families from identity theft by monitoring various aspects of their personal and financial information. It aims to detect and alert users to potential fraud, providing tools and services to prevent and resolve identity theft issues.Target Audience
The service is targeted at individuals and families who are concerned about protecting their identities. It is also offered as an employee benefit, making it accessible to a broader audience through workplace programs.Key Features
Credit Monitoring
ID Watchdog offers credit report monitoring from one or all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian), depending on the plan chosen. Users receive daily or monthly credit reports and VantageScore updates, which help track changes in their credit scores.Identity Monitoring
The service includes dark web monitoring, where it scans websites, chat rooms, and other forums for compromised credentials such as Social Security numbers, email addresses, credit cards, and bank accounts. It also monitors public records, USPS change of address requests, and sex offender registries.Fraud Prevention and Resolution
ID Watchdog provides features like subprime loan monitoring, high-risk transaction alerts, and credit report locks to prevent fraudulent activities. In case of identity theft, dedicated resolution specialists help manage the recovery process.Additional Security Tools
The service includes a personal VPN with threat protection, device security with antivirus protection, mobile scam alerts, browser and phishing protection, and missing or stolen device tools. It also offers a password manager and parental controls for unlimited devices.Financial Account Monitoring
ID Watchdog monitors financial accounts such as credit cards, investments, and savings accounts to detect any suspicious activity. It also offers assistance for lost wallets and helps in canceling credit cards and other memberships.Insurance and Reimbursement
The service provides up to $1 million in identity theft insurance and up to $1 million in reimbursement for stolen funds from 401(K) or HSA accounts, depending on the plan.User Support
ID Watchdog offers 24/7 customer care and assistance with setting up fraud alerts and credit freezes. It also helps in reducing solicitation by registering users’ phone numbers on the national Do Not Call registry. Overall, ID Watchdog is a comprehensive solution for individuals looking to protect their identities and financial information from potential threats.
ID Watchdog - User Interface and Experience
Interface Design
ID Watchdog’s interface deviates from the traditional dashboard and wizard-driven designs commonly seen in identity theft protection services. Instead, it resembles a virus-scanning tool, providing a unique and refreshing approach to managing personal data security. The main window presents a straightforward layout, making it easy for users to initiate scans for Dark Web monitoring and other essential features.
Ease of Use
The interface is intuitive and easy to use. Upon launching the application, users are greeted with a clear and simple layout that allows them to quickly access key features such as Dark Web monitoring, address change alerts, and credit checks. The presentation of credit information is easy to understand, enabling users to monitor their credit health and detect any suspicious activities without much hassle.
Key Features Access
Users can easily access various features from the main dashboard. For example, they can initiate scans for registered sex offenders in their area, monitor social media accounts for takeovers or impersonations, and receive alerts about any changes to their physical address. The credit monitoring section is also well-organized, allowing users to check their credit reports from one or all three major credit bureaus and track their VantageScore.
Mobile App
The ID Watchdog mobile app, available from Equifax, extends this user-friendly experience to mobile devices. The app provides real-time alerts for suspicious activity, allows users to lock and unlock their Equifax credit reports, and offers comprehensive monitoring that scans billions of data points for signs of identity theft. It also includes features like child credit lock and credit score tracking, all accessible through a clear and user-friendly interface.
Overall User Experience
Once the initial setup is complete, the overall user experience is generally positive. Despite some potential issues with the signup process, particularly if using certain browsers like Safari, the service becomes smooth and efficient once logged in. The customer service is highly praised for being friendly and helpful, which can alleviate any initial frustrations. The comprehensive suite of services, including prevention, detection, and resolution support, contributes to a sense of security and peace of mind for users.
In summary, ID Watchdog’s user interface is designed to be straightforward, easy to use, and visually appealing, making it a user-friendly tool for safeguarding personal data and maintaining peace of mind.

ID Watchdog - Key Features and Functionality
ID Watchdog, an identity theft protection service offered by Equifax, boasts a comprehensive array of features designed to safeguard your personal and financial information. Here are the main features and how they work:
Credit Monitoring
ID Watchdog offers credit monitoring from one or all three major credit bureaus, depending on the plan you choose.Select Plan
- The Select plan monitors your Equifax credit report, providing monthly credit reports and VantageScores.
Premium Plan
- The Premium plan extends this to include monitoring from Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian, with daily Equifax credit reports and annual reports from the other two bureaus.
Dark Web Monitoring
This feature scans the dark web, chat rooms, and other forums known for trafficking stolen personal and financial information. It alerts you if your Social Security number, email addresses, credit cards, bank accounts, or driver’s license are found on these sites.Public Records and High-Risk Transactions Monitoring
ID Watchdog monitors public records and high-risk transactions to detect potential fraud. This includes alerts for changes in your public records and suspicious transactions that could indicate account takeovers.Social Media Monitoring
The service monitors your social media accounts (and those of your minor children, if covered by a family plan) for unauthorized or potentially damaging information. It also provides social account takeover alerts.Credit Report Lock and Child Credit Lock
With the Premium plan, you can lock your Equifax and TransUnion credit reports to prevent unauthorized access. For families, there is also the option to create and lock a credit report for your minor child to protect against credit fraud in their name.Data Breach Notifications
ID Watchdog alerts you if your personal information is associated with a reported data breach or is detected through dark web scans.Fully Managed Identity Resolution
In the event of identity theft, a certified specialist will be assigned to your case to guide you through the recovery process. This includes credit freeze assistance and identity theft insurance up to $1 million.Additional Security Tools
The Premium plan includes several additional security tools:- A personal VPN (via NordVPN) for secure internet access.
- A password manager.
- Device security and online privacy tools (via Bitdefender), including parental controls and anti-theft features.
- Financial accounts monitoring to alert you of transactions and changes in your checking, savings, credit, and investment accounts.
Alerts and Notifications
ID Watchdog provides customizable alert options, including notifications for high-risk transactions, USPS change of address, registered sex offender reporting, and more. You also receive alerts when a business or lender tries to access your locked or frozen Equifax credit report.AI Integration
While the specific details on AI integration are not extensively outlined in the available sources, the comprehensive monitoring and alert systems likely leverage AI to scan vast amounts of data efficiently. For instance, dark web monitoring and public records monitoring involve scanning through billions of data points, a task that would be impractical without AI-driven tools. Additionally, the detection and alerting mechanisms for high-risk transactions and social media monitoring likely utilize AI algorithms to identify suspicious activity quickly and accurately. Overall, ID Watchdog’s features are designed to provide end-to-end protection and resolution services, helping users to better safeguard their identities and recover quickly in the event of identity theft.
ID Watchdog - Performance and Accuracy
Evaluation of ID Watchdog
When evaluating the performance and accuracy of ID Watchdog in the identity protection services category, several key points stand out:
Comprehensive Monitoring
ID Watchdog is highly regarded for its extensive monitoring capabilities. It tracks billions of data points, including credit report activity, the dark web, public records, and more. This comprehensive approach helps in detecting signs of potential fraud quickly and accurately.
Detection, Monitoring, and Alerts
The service excels in detection, monitoring, and alerting users to potential threats. It provides alerts for various types of fraud, including credit fraud, breach alerts, and social network alerts. This proactive approach ensures users are informed promptly about any suspicious activity.
Resolution Support
ID Watchdog offers strong resolution support, which is a critical aspect of identity protection. In the event of identity theft, dedicated resolution specialists help manage cases until the user’s identity is restored. This includes assistance with reporting fraud and closing bogus accounts, as well as granting limited power of attorney for more complex issues like income tax or medical identity fraud.
Additional Features
The service includes additional premium features such as a VPN, password management services, and antivirus software from Bitdefender. These features enhance the overall security and convenience of the service, making it a comprehensive package for identity and digital security.
Limitations and Areas for Improvement
Despite its strengths, there are some limitations and areas where ID Watchdog could improve:
- Browser Compatibility Issues: Users have reported difficulties with signing up and logging in when using the Safari browser. The service is only compatible with Google Chrome, which is not clearly indicated on the signup page. This can lead to frustration and delays in getting started.
- Mobile App Performance: The mobile apps for both iOS and Android have received mixed reviews, with users reporting bugs and issues that affect their functionality. Improving the mobile app experience would enhance user satisfaction.
- Data Security Concerns: Given that ID Watchdog is owned by Equifax, which has experienced significant data breaches in the past, some users may be concerned about the security of their personal information. Addressing these concerns through enhanced security measures and transparency could help build trust.
- Financial Account Monitoring: To get full monitoring, including financial account monitoring, users need to upgrade to the Premium plan. This could be seen as a limitation for those on the basic plan.
Customer Support
ID Watchdog’s customer support is generally praised for being friendly, helpful, and patient. The support team is available 24/7, and users can contact them via phone or email. This level of support is crucial for resolving issues and ensuring a smooth user experience.
Conclusion
In summary, ID Watchdog performs well in terms of comprehensive monitoring, detection, and resolution support. However, it faces challenges related to browser compatibility, mobile app performance, and data security concerns. Addressing these areas could further enhance the service’s overall performance and user satisfaction.

ID Watchdog - Pricing and Plans
ID Watchdog, an identity theft protection service from Equifax, offers a clear and competitive pricing structure with several plan options. Here’s a breakdown of their plans and features:
Plans and Pricing
ID Watchdog Select Plan
- Individual Monthly Cost: $14.95
- Individual Annual Cost: $150 (saving $29.40 compared to monthly payments)
- Family Monthly Cost: $23.95
- Family Annual Cost: $240 (saving $47.40 compared to monthly payments)
- Features:
- Monitoring of the Equifax credit report
- Identity monitoring across billions of data points
- Social account monitoring
- Fully managed resolution support for identity theft
- Up to $1 million in identity theft insurance
- Credit report locking and unlocking
- Monitoring for dark web, high-risk transactions, and public reports
ID Watchdog Premium Plan
- Individual Monthly Cost: $21.95
- Individual Annual Cost: $220 (saving $43.40 compared to monthly payments)
- Family Monthly Cost: $34.95
- Family Annual Cost: $350 (saving $69.40 compared to monthly payments)
- Features:
- All features from the Select Plan
- Monitoring of credit reports from all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, TransUnion, Experian)
- Daily credit score updates from Equifax
- Locking and unlocking of credit reports from all three bureaus
- Financial accounts monitoring
- Reimbursement for unauthorized fund removal from 401(K) and HSA accounts up to $1 million
- Equifax Child Credit Lock (for family plans)
- Access to a branded VPN (NordVPN) for enhanced online security
Free Options
ID Watchdog does not offer a free trial or free plan for general consumers. However, some employers and organizations may provide free or discounted plans as part of their employee benefits, such as the Fresno Unified School District which offers free credit monitoring and identity theft protection through ID Watchdog.

ID Watchdog - Integration and Compatibility
Integration and Compatibility of ID Watchdog
Platform Compatibility
ID Watchdog is compatible with various devices and platforms, although there are some nuances to be aware of. The service can be accessed via web browsers on both desktop and mobile devices. However, there have been reports of a poor iOS app experience, which might affect users relying on Apple devices.Security and Authentication
ID Watchdog employs advanced security measures to protect user data. It uses Transport Layer Security (TLS) to encrypt data, ensuring secure sessions and connections. Additionally, the service includes two-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security for user accounts.Integration with Credit Bureaus
One of the significant advantages of ID Watchdog is its integration with major credit bureaus, particularly Equifax, given that it is owned by Equifax. The service offers multi-bureau credit report monitoring, especially in the Platinum Plus plan, which includes daily updates from Equifax and monitoring of Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian credit reports.Device and Digital Protection
ID Watchdog includes features that protect not only your identity but also your devices and online activity. This includes top-ranked device security tools, a personal VPN, and a password manager to safeguard against viruses, malware, and ransomware.Family and Dependent Integration
The service allows for the protection of entire families, including minors. Features such as the Child Credit Lock enable parents to create and lock an Equifax credit report for their minor children, helping to prevent credit fraud in their names.General Usage
The setup process for ID Watchdog is relatively straightforward. Users can select a subscription plan, enter their personal and payment information, create usernames and passwords, and verify their identities with a few quick questions. This ease of setup makes it accessible even for those who may not be highly tech-savvy. While there is no detailed information on specific integrations with other third-party tools or services beyond the credit bureaus, ID Watchdog’s comprehensive suite of identity protection features ensures it stands as a solid choice for those seeking to protect their identities across various platforms and devices.
ID Watchdog - Customer Support and Resources
ID Watchdog Customer Support
ID Watchdog offers a comprehensive array of customer support options and additional resources to help users manage and protect their identities effectively. They provide 24/7 customer care, available every day of the year. You can contact their Customer Care Center at 1-800-970-5182 for any issues or questions you may have, ensuring you can get help whenever you need it.Identity Theft Resolution Specialists
If you fall victim to identity theft, ID Watchdog assigns a highly trained and certified resolution specialist to your case. These specialists will manage your case personally, making phone calls, obtaining detailed information, and submitting requests on your behalf. You can track the status of your case through your ID Watchdog dashboard.Additional Resources
Multi-Bureau Credit Monitoring
ID Watchdog offers monitoring of your credit reports from all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). This includes features like credit report locks, blocked inquiry alerts, and credit freezes, which help prevent unauthorized access to your credit reports.Dark Web Monitoring
The service includes AI-powered scans of the dark web to alert you if your identity or credentials are exposed through a data breach or found on the dark web. You can add various credentials such as email addresses, credit cards, and bank accounts to broaden these scans.Financial Accounts Monitoring
ID Watchdog monitors your financial accounts, including credit cards, investments, and savings accounts, to detect any suspicious activity. This helps in early detection and prevention of fraudulent transactions.Assistance for Lost Wallets and Fraud Alerts
If you lose your wallet, ID Watchdog can help you cancel credit cards and other memberships. They also assist in setting up fraud alerts with all three credit bureaus and can help you freeze your credit reports to prevent further fraud.Mobile App
The ID Watchdog mobile app, available on the App Store and Google Play, allows you to manage your identity protection on the go. This app includes features like dark web monitoring, credit report locks, and alerts for any suspicious activity.Insurance and Reimbursement
ID Watchdog offers identity theft insurance with up to $1 million in reimbursement if your identity is stolen. Additionally, they provide reimbursement for stolen funds from 401(K) or HSA accounts, also up to $1 million.Other Features
Personal VPN and Safe Browsing
ID Watchdog includes a personal VPN and safe browsing features to enhance your online privacy and security.Device Security and Online Privacy
The service provides tools to secure your devices and protect your online privacy, including parental controls and anti-theft features.Customizable Alert Options
You can set up customizable alerts to notify you of various activities related to your identity and financial accounts. These resources and support options are designed to provide comprehensive protection and assistance, ensuring that you have the help you need to safeguard your identity.
ID Watchdog - Pros and Cons
Pros of ID Watchdog
Comprehensive Identity Protection
ID Watchdog offers a wide range of features to protect your identity, including credit monitoring from one or all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, TransUnion, Experian), depending on the plan you choose.
Additional Security Tools
The service includes antivirus protection from Bitdefender, a VPN from NordVPN, and a password manager from NordPass, making it a one-stop solution for various security needs.
Dark Web and Social Media Monitoring
ID Watchdog scans the dark web for your personal information and monitors your social media accounts for takeovers or impersonations, providing alerts and customizable notification options.
Identity Restoration Services
In the event of identity theft, ID Watchdog provides up to $1 million in identity theft insurance and assigns a certified specialist to guide you through the recovery process.
Family Coverage
ID Watchdog offers family plans that can cover an additional adult and up to four children, although it may not be the best option for larger families.
Customizable Alerts and Controls
Users can set up various alerts and manage their credit reports, including locking their credit with the three major credit bureaus and receiving notifications for any unauthorized access.
24/7 Support
The service offers round-the-clock support in over 100 languages, ensuring help is always available when needed.
Cons of ID Watchdog
Pricing
While the service is moderately priced, it can be expensive for families, especially if you need to cover multiple individuals.
Browser Compatibility Issues
ID Watchdog may not be compatible with certain browsers, which could be inconvenient for some users.
Limited Financial Account Monitoring
The service lacks comprehensive financial account monitoring, which is a feature some users might find essential.
No Court Records Monitoring
ID Watchdog does not provide court records monitoring, which means you might not be notified if your identity is used in association with arrests or convictions.
Setup Issues
Some users have reported difficulties in setting up the service, although once set up, it operates comprehensively.
Data Privacy Concerns
There is some confusion regarding how ID Watchdog handles user data, as their privacy statement contradicts Equifax’s policy on sharing data for marketing purposes.
Overall, ID Watchdog is a comprehensive identity theft protection service with many useful features, but it also has some limitations and potential drawbacks that users should consider.

ID Watchdog - Comparison with Competitors
When Comparing ID Watchdog with Other Identity Theft Protection Services
Several key features and differences stand out among identity theft protection services.Unique Features of ID Watchdog
ID Watchdog offers a comprehensive set of features that make it a strong contender in the identity theft protection market. Here are some of its unique selling points:- Bundle Services: ID Watchdog stands out by including additional security tools such as NordVPN, NordPass password manager, and Bitdefender antivirus software. This makes it a valuable option for those looking to bundle multiple security services into one package.
- Credit Monitoring: ID Watchdog provides credit monitoring from one or all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, TransUnion, Experian), depending on the plan you choose. It also offers credit lock and freeze options, which can be managed through their dashboard.
- Identity Restoration: The service includes up to $1 million in identity theft insurance and provides identity restoration services with dedicated specialists to help recover from identity theft.
Comparison with LifeLock
LifeLock, another popular identity theft protection service, has some differences that might make one more suitable for your needs than the other:- Family Plans: LifeLock is more flexible and better suited for families, offering plans that can cover couples and families more comprehensively. ID Watchdog’s family plan, while available, is less extensive, covering one additional adult and up to four children.
- Home Title Monitoring: LifeLock offers home title monitoring, which is not available with ID Watchdog. This feature is crucial for homeowners who want to protect their property from fraudulent transfers.
- Insurance Coverage: LifeLock provides up to $3 million in identity theft insurance, which is higher than ID Watchdog’s $1 million coverage.
Comparison with Other Alternatives
Other identity theft protection services also offer unique features that might be more appealing depending on your specific needs:- IDShield: IDShield offers unlimited one-on-one consultations with an ID theft specialist, which can be very beneficial for personalized guidance. It also provides continuous credit report monitoring and real-time alerts on fraudulent activity. However, it is more expensive than ID Watchdog.
- Aura: Aura is known for its comprehensive coverage, including parental controls, Safe Gaming with cyberbullying alerts, and device protection. It offers a 14-day trial and is comparable in price to LifeLock. Aura is particularly good for large families due to its extensive coverage options.
- ReliaShield: ReliaShield focuses on personal information, dark web, social security card, and credit card monitoring. It provides real-time alerts on changes to your credit file and has an award-winning fraud recovery team. However, it lacks insurance coverage and is more expensive than some other options.
Potential Alternatives
If ID Watchdog does not meet all your requirements, here are some alternatives to consider:- Aura: For those needing extensive family coverage and additional features like parental controls and device protection.
- IDShield: For those who value personalized consultations with ID theft specialists and comprehensive credit monitoring.
- LifeLock: For homeowners or those needing higher insurance coverage and more flexible family plans.

ID Watchdog - Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about ID Watchdog, along with detailed responses:
Is ID Watchdog legitimate?
Yes, ID Watchdog is legitimate. It is owned by Equifax, one of the major credit bureaus in the U.S., and it has an A rating from the Better Business Bureau.
How much does ID Watchdog cost?
ID Watchdog offers two main plans: the Select Plan and the Premium Plan. The Individual Select Plan costs $14.95 per month or $150 annually. The Individual Premium Plan costs $21.95 per month or $220 annually. Family plans are also available, with the Select Plan at $23.95 per month or $240 annually, and the Premium Plan at $34.95 per month or $350 annually.
What features does ID Watchdog offer?
ID Watchdog provides a range of features, including:
- Credit monitoring from one or all three major credit bureaus
- Daily credit reports and VantageScore updates
- Financial account monitoring
- Dark web monitoring
- High-risk transaction alerts
- Social media account monitoring
- Address monitoring
- Registered offender reports
- Assistance for lost wallets, fraud alerts, and credit freezes
- Identity theft resolution specialists
- Up to $1 million in identity theft insurance
- 401(K) and HSA stolen funds reimbursement (available only with the Premium Plan)
- VPN and password manager through Nord and Bitdefender.
Does ID Watchdog offer any additional security tools?
Yes, ID Watchdog includes additional security tools such as a VPN through NordVPN and a password manager, which are particularly useful for enhancing online security.
How does ID Watchdog protect children’s identities?
ID Watchdog offers a Child Credit Lock feature, available with the Premium Plan, which helps secure minor children against credit fraud by generating an Equifax credit report and locking it to prevent unauthorized access.
What kind of support does ID Watchdog provide in case of identity theft?
ID Watchdog provides identity theft resolution specialists who are available to help users resolve identity theft issues. They assist with setting up fraud alerts, credit freezes, and other necessary steps to restore your identity. Additionally, they offer up to $1 million in identity theft insurance and reimbursement for stolen 401(K) and HSA funds.
Is my data secure with ID Watchdog?
ID Watchdog uses Transport Layer Security (TLS) to encrypt and secure your data. While they do keep your personal information even after you cancel your subscription, they do not share it with third parties for marketing purposes. However, it’s important to consider the 2017 Equifax breach when deciding how comfortable you are with sharing your data.
Can I monitor my credit reports and scores with ID Watchdog?
Yes, you can monitor your credit reports and scores with ID Watchdog. Depending on the plan, you can get credit reports from one or all three major credit bureaus, along with daily or monthly VantageScore updates. You can also lock and unlock your credit reports to prevent unauthorized access.
How do I contact ID Watchdog customer support?
ID Watchdog customer support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. You can contact them at 800-970-5182.
Does ID Watchdog offer a mobile app?
Yes, ID Watchdog has a mobile app available from the App Store and Google Play, which allows you to monitor and protect your identity on the go. The app includes features like dark web monitoring and alerts for potential identity breaches.

ID Watchdog - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of ID Watchdog
ID Watchdog is a comprehensive identity theft protection service that offers a wide range of features to help individuals and families safeguard their personal and financial information.Key Features
- Credit Monitoring: ID Watchdog provides credit report monitoring from one or all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian), depending on the plan you choose. You can lock or unlock your credit reports to prevent unauthorized access.
- Dark Web Monitoring: The service includes dark web monitoring to detect if your personal and financial information is being trafficked online.
- Public Records and USPS Monitoring: It monitors public records and the USPS National Change of Address database to alert you to any unexpected changes or activities associated with your identity.
- Child Credit Lock: You can activate a Child Credit Lock to protect your minor child’s identity by creating and locking their Equifax credit report.
- Subprime Loan Block: ID Watchdog blocks new subprime, payday, and high-cost installment loans that might be taken out in your name.
- Additional Security Tools: The service includes antivirus software from Bitdefender, a VPN from NordVPN, and a password manager from NordPass, making it a bundled security solution.
Who Would Benefit Most
ID Watchdog is particularly beneficial for:- Individuals and Families: The service offers plans that can cover one adult or an entire family, including up to four children, making it a good option for those looking to protect multiple family members.
- Those Seeking Comprehensive Protection: If you want a service that includes not only identity theft protection but also additional security features like antivirus, VPN, and password management, ID Watchdog is a strong choice.
Customer Support and Recovery
- Identity Restoration Services: ID Watchdog provides fully managed identity resolution services, where a certified specialist will guide you through the recovery process if your identity is compromised.
- Identity Theft Insurance: The service includes up to $1 million in identity theft insurance and reimbursement for stolen funds from 401(k) or HSA accounts.
Recommendation
ID Watchdog is a solid option for anyone looking for comprehensive identity theft protection combined with other essential security tools. Here are some points to consider:- Comprehensive Features: It offers a wide range of monitoring and protection services that cover various aspects of your identity.
- Additional Security Tools: The inclusion of antivirus, VPN, and password manager makes it a valuable bundle for overall digital security.
- Customer Support: The fully managed identity resolution services and dedicated customer support team provide peace of mind and practical help in case of identity theft.