What to do if you suspect you are a victim of identity theft or fraud?
- You’ve always had a spotless credit history. You pay your bills
on time. And you live well within your financial means. But, recently
you’ve received a few calls from collection agencies requesting payment
for items that you didn’t buy. Before you dismiss these actions as a
mistake, INVESTIGATE.
- You could be the victim of credit fraud. Each year individuals
with good credit histories fall prey to criminals who steal their
identity and run up thousands of dollars in bad debt under their names.
If it happens to you, through no fault of your own, you could be faced
with years of trying to clear your credit history of false information.
If you suspect identity fraud:
- If you suspect someone has used your name, Social Security Number
or driver’s license to obtain credit, contact each of the three credit
bureaus and request that a “fraud alert” be placed on your credit file:
1. Equifax (800) 525-6285
2. Experian (888) 397-3742; select the option for fraud assistance.
3. Trans Union ( 800) 680-7289; ask for FVAD
Report identity theft crimes to the local police or law enforcement agency in your area.
- Put a “fraud alert” on your credit file. Also, report the possible theft to all credit card issuers.
- Report the possible theft to all credit card issuers.
- If you have reason to believe that an identity thief has accessed
your bank accounts, checking account or ATM card, close the accounts
immediately.
- Consider changing your driver’s license number if you suspect someone has been using it to write bad checks.
To prevent identity fraud from happening, here are some steps you can take:
- Don’t carry extra credit cards, your birth certificate, passport
or Social Security number with you unless necessary. This will minimize
the amount of information a thief can steal from you.
- Don’t print your Social Security Number on your checks. Only give it out if absolutely necessary.
- Shield the ATM screen when using it in a public place.
- Tear up pre-approved credit card offers that arrive in the mail.
- Never leave a receipt with your credit card number on it in a public place. Take it home with you to a safe place or tear it up.
