Identity theft is really a growing issue in our country, with an estimated nine million victims each year. Should you suspect that your private information may perhaps have been stolen and misused, it is best to take action to protect yourself without delay. The Federal Trade Commission, our country's consumer protection agency, has quite a few resources and guidelines for victims of identity theft.
If your personal info has been stolen or misused, it's vital that you act asap. The longer you wait to take action, the a lot more hard it will be to undo the harm.
The initial thing you must do is place a fraud alert on your credit reports. A fraud alert requires lenders to take specific actions to confirm your identity prior to a new account can be produced, helping to stop a fraudulent account from being opened in your own name.
To place a fraud alert, just contact one of the following firms:
* Equifax - 1-800-525-6285 * Experian - 1-888-397-3742 * Transunion - 1-800-680-7289
When you call the company, ask for a free of charge copy of your credit report, and review the report carefully for any signs of fraudulent activity.
Close all accounts that you believe have been compromised. Call every corporation involved and ask to speak with an individual within the security or fraud department. Follow up in writing with copies (not originals) of aiding documentation and send it via certified mail.
File a report with the Federal trade commission, either by way of their on line complaint form or by phone at 1-877-438-4338. This report can aid you in obtaining a police report, and gives authorities the details they need to track down identity criminals.
File a report with local police where the theft took place, and get a copy of the police report. Numerous creditors require a police report before they'll resolve your disputes of fraudulent charges.
Stay alert for signs of further abuse of your information, such as failing to get bills or other mail, receiving credit cards that you did not apply for, or calls from a debt collector. Ask your creditors for a letter of confirmation as your disputes are resolved, as evidence against further fraudulent charges.
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