Ah, identity theft—it’s like that one relative who keeps showing up uninvited to every family gathering. You don’t remember giving them your address, yet here they are, ready to “borrow” something else. It’s such a common nuisance that the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) dedicates a whole week to tackling it head-on. And honestly? It’s about time we all learn to slam the door on these digital freeloaders.

Identity Theft Awareness Week 2026: Your Chance to Fight Back!

Mark your calendars for January 26-28, 2026, because the FTC is rolling out a string of events that will turn you into an identity theft-fighting ninja. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming up:

  • Monday, January 26, 11 a.m. ET: Tune into “The Fraudian Slip” podcast because, let’s face it, who doesn’t love a good pun with a side of helpful advice? Listen to experts spill the beans on how identity theft works and how to keep your details locked up tighter than Fort Knox. Available on the Identity Theft Resource Center’s website.

  • Monday, January 26, 1 p.m. ET: Veterans, watch out! You’re on the hit list for identity thieves. Join a webinar with the FTC and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to learn how to shield your benefits from these digital pickpockets.

  • Monday, January 26, 2 p.m. ET: Calling all bankers and financial wizards! The American Bankers Association Foundation and the FTC are hosting a webinar to arm you with tools to help customers dodge identity theft like Neo dodges bullets in The Matrix.

  • Tuesday, January 27, 1 p.m. ET: Grab some popcorn for a Facebook Live session with AARP and the FTC. They’ll dish on the latest identity theft trends and teach you how to keep your identity under wraps.

  • Tuesday, January 27, 2:30 p.m. ET: Librarians, it’s time to be the heroes we know you are! Attend a webinar with the Association of Bookmobile and Outreach Services to get the skinny on protecting your patrons from identity theft.

  • Wednesday, January 28, 2 p.m. ET: Identity theft doesn’t discriminate—it targets all ages! Join the FTC and the Identity Theft Resource Center for tips on bouncing back from a data breach and safeguarding yourself and your loved ones.

This Identity Theft Awareness Week, join the digital defense squad and get the lowdown on keeping your identity safe from prying eyes. Share what you learn, and let’s make identity thieves as obsolete as dial-up internet.

Ready to lock them out? Check out the full event schedule and join the fight: Original article URL

Original article: https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2026/01/identity-theft-awareness-week-starts-today