Identity Theft
by: Developed from materials provided by Consumer Action
If it happens to you
What is Identity Theft?
Identity theft happens when crooks pretend to be you.
They use things like your name, address, Social Security number, bank account, credit card numbers, or birth date.
They apply for credit cards in your name.
The thieves then buy things but don't pay for them.
By the time you learn what happened, your credit is ruined and bill collectors are hounding you.
If I'm a Victim of Identity Theft, What Should I Do?
Call the Police
Report your case to the police.Start by calling the local police or sheriff.Keep a copy of the police report to show credit bureaus, banks and others.
If the police don't want to give you a copy of the report, remind them that this type of theft is a felony.
Tell them that you have the right to the report.
Call the credit bureaus
Call all three credit bureausYou must call the fraud units of the major credit bureaus right away.They are
·Equifax at 1-800-685-1111
·Experian at 1-888-397-3742
·Trans Union at 1-800-916-8800
Ask to have a fraud alert placed on your credit report.
This lets companies know that someone else has been pretending to be you.
It tells them that you wish to be phoned before any new credit is granted.
Check your credit report often
You should order a copy of your credit report every few months.
The credit bureaus must provide victims of identity fraud with one free report per year.
If accounts created by thieves haven't been removed from your credit report, tell the credit bureau right away.
Contact the credit bureaus if you find any accounts you did not set up.
Report your case to the federal government
The FTC has a special hotline that will tell you things you need to know.You can also file a complaint by phone.Contact them online at www.222.consumer.gov/idtheft
You can report any fraud involving your Social Security number at 1-800-269-0271.
If your crime is federal, check your phone book for the Secret Service office near you.
Call and report this theft to the Secret Service.
Tell your bank about the fraud
Your credit report will list the banks and other creditors who allowed the stolen accounts to be set up.
Write a letter to each one telling them that you are a fraud victim.
Tell them you want the account closed. Ask them to label it closed "at the consumer's request."
If you have trouble
The harm done by thieves can be long term.
Banks may not want to give you a checking account.
Stores may not accept your checks.
If this happens ask the bank or the store for the name of the screening company they use.
Call and tell the company aboutthe fraud.
They should then clear your name.
These companies include
Chex Systems at 1-800-428-9623,
Equifax at 1-800-437-5120
Telecheck at 1-800-710-9898.
Last Reviewed On: 04/12/04
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