Don’t Get Spooked by “Frankenstein” ID Theft: Ohio Division of Financial Institutions Warns of Synthetic Identity Fraud

COLUMBUS, Ohio - As Halloween approaches, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Financial Institutions is alerting consumers to the growing issue of "Frankenstein" identity theft. Also known as synthetic identity fraud, this occurs when criminals stitch together a real Social Security number with fabricated names, addresses, or birth dates to create a brand-new identity.

This type of identity theft is particularly dangerous because the new identity can be used to open accounts, obtain credit, or access services to build a fake credit profile over time. While anyone can fall victim to this, the identities of children are often prime targets because they usually have clean credit files.

Ohioans reported 32,110 identity theft cases in 2025 according to the FTC, and statewide fraud losses climbed approximately 35.8% from 2024. This underscores the need for Ohioans of all ages to recognize the signs of identity theft early and take preventive steps to safeguard their finances.

"Unlike traditional identity theft, synthetic fraud can lurk in the shadows because the scammer isn't impersonating you, they're impersonating someone who doesn't exist while using your information," Interim Division Superintendent Ingrid White said. "Knowing the signs and taking simple steps like freezing credit can help keep your household safe."

Steps to Prevent Becoming a Victim
Don't let scammers have this trick; make a secure identity your treat this Halloween.

• Freeze your credit or add a fraud alert: A security freeze prevents most new creditors from accessing your credit file and helps stop new accounts from being opened in your name. Remember that you must contact each credit bureau to place a freeze.
• Protect your child's identity: For minors under the age of 16, you can request a free child credit freeze that will stay in place until an authorized user removes it. You can find instructions on how to place a freeze on your child's credit by visiting the three credit bureaus' websites, Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.
• Monitor credit regularly: Be on the lookout for unauthorized transactions or accounts. You can also request a free credit report at AnnualCreditReport.com.
• Know who can still see your file while a freeze is in place: Creditors of accounts you already have, certain government agencies, and companies you hire to monitor your credit can still view your file.

Red Flags to Look For

• Bills or collection notices for accounts you didn't open.
• Letters about unemployment benefits or tax filings you didn't submit.
• Credit report entries with unfamiliar accounts or inquiries, such as your SSN linked to a different name or address.

What to Do if You Suspect You've Been Targeted

• Place a free, one-year fraud alert: Contact Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion. When you call one bureau, they will notify the other two. This requires creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts.
• Contact your bank and credit card issuer: If you shared personal or account information, ask them to check for unauthorized transactions and to freeze or secure your accounts as needed.
• Continue to closely monitor your accounts: Even after you change passwords and contact your financial institutions, watch for unusual or suspicious activity and report it to the institution right away.

You are encouraged to also report the incident and follow recovery steps at the FTC's IdentityTheft.gov site, which includes a step-by-step guide and what to do if your information was exposed in a data breach. Ohioans with any questions or who think they may have been a victim of a scam can also contact the Division's Office of Consumer Affairs at [email protected] or 614-728-8400.

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About the Ohio Division of Financial Institutions
The Division of Financial Institutions is part of the Ohio Department of Commerce. The department is Ohio's chief regulatory agency, focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. We ensure businesses follow the laws that help them create jobs and keep Ohioans safe. To learn more about what we do, visit our website at www.com.ohio.gov.