I use an email alias system to create a unique email address every time I sign up for a site.
Today, I started receiving unusual email on one of those addresses. My credit card provider also let me know that someone was trying to use my credit card to book airfare. I know exactly which site my data leaked from since I used a unique email alias to register for that site. I contacted that site and told them they’ve been breached.
I also called my credit card company. They’re reversing the charge and issuing me a new card.
I’m still worried because I’m receiving lots of “here’s your login code” and “new user registration” emails at the alias address. I can just kill the alias and I won’t receive these messages again, but I’m interested in seeing what they’re up to. Can these messages still be used for nefarious purposes? I obviously don’t click links in any emails I don’t recognize, and access to my main email account is secured behind three-factor authentication, so I don’t see how someone would actually be able to retrieve one of these login codes.
Since the genius who used my credit card number tried to book a flight, I also have her name and a 50-50 shot at her location. Should I report her to local authorities?
I’m in the US.
You don’t report identity theft to local authorities, local cops don’t deal with that. In the US you would report it to the FBI and the FTC.