Identity Theft Tips

Be Aware

Identity theft is a serious crime that occurs when someone uses personal information such as your name, social security number, passport, bank account, and other data without your knowledge to commit fraud or theft.

How Thieves Acquire your Personal Information

• Stealing Social Security numbers, banking, checking, and credit card numbers.
• Stealing incoming/outgoing mail that includes account statements, pre-approved credit card offers, and tax information.
• Digging through your garbage — "Dumpster Diving"
• Buying your information from employees at stores, hotels, and restaurants.
• Retrieving your personal information off the Internet.

Protect Yourself

• Shred or cut up important information before discarding.
• Do not give out your Social Security number unless absolutely necessary. Never print your Social Security number on your checks.
• Check your credit cards, bank statements, and utility bills for any unauthorized activity.
• List or photocopy the contents of your wallet. Only carry the identification and credit cards that you need, keep everything else in a safe place.
• Pick up your mail as soon as possible. Always send mail from a secure mailbox or a local post office.
• Investigate any suspicious accounts or activity. Request a copy of your credit report once a year.
• Get your free annual credit report online.

What to Do if You are a Victim

• Contact your bank, creditors, and financial institutions to close accounts first by phone then by certified mail. Put passwords (not your mother's maiden name) on any new accounts you open.
• Notify the major credit reporting bureaus. Ask that a "fraud alert" be placed on your file and no new credit granted without your approval.
• Report the identity theft to your local police department and request a copy of the report.
• Keep copies of all documents. Always send photocopies never originals.
• Request copies of your credit report every six months until your credit is clear.
• Get your free annual credit report online.

Request a Free Credit Report

Get a free annual credit report online from AnnualCreditReport.com.

Additional resources:

• Major Credit Reporting Agencies:
  Equifax : 1-800-525-6285
  Transunion : 1-800-680-7289
  Experian : 1-888-397-3742
• Major Credit Verification Companies:
  Chexsystems : 1-800-428-9623
  Scan: 1-800-262-7771
  Checkrite: 1-800-766-2748
• Federal Trade Commission (FTC):
  www.ftc.gov 1-877-438-4338
• United States Department of Justice:
  ww.usdoj.gov/criminal/fraud/idtheft.html
• Social Security Administration (Fraud Hotline):
  1-800-269-0271