How to handle identity theft

What to do if you are a victim of identity theft

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Three major credit bureaus contact information
• Equifax
• Experian
• TransUnion

1. Call the fraud units of the three major credit bureaus and request a "fraud alert" be placed on your credit file. Check your financial statements for accuracy.
2. Order copies of your credit report from the credit bureaus to check whether and fraudulent accounts were opened without your knowledge or consent.
3. Contact you banks and creditors, by phone and in writing, and report the crime. You may be advised to close accounts. Record the names and numbers of people with whom you discussed your case and retain all original reports and supporting documents.
4. Contact your financial insititions and request they flag your account. Instruct them yo contact you immediately if there is unusual activity on your accounts.
5. File your complaint online with the Federal Trade Commission, or call their Identity Teft Hotline at 1-877-IDTHEFT. The FTC has assistance for victims.

Tips & Warnings

• Keeping accurate and complete records are a big step toward helping you resolve ID theft that has already occurred.
• Make a photo copy of all the contents of your wallet. Front and back of all credit cards for contact information(black out cc# except the last four digits) This will help you remember who and how to contact if your wallet is stolen.
• Don't forget to contact movie rental businesses if your stolen wallet contains a rental card.
• Never keep your social security card in your wallet.
• Check your credit regularly.
• Thieves will search garbage for your personal information. Always shred papers that contain personal information this includes mail offers.