How to handle identity theft
What do you do if your identity has been stolen? Read this so that you do have some information on what can be done to get your identity and credit back.
The very first thing is to report the identity theft to local law enforcement authorities. This includes the police, postal inspectors and the Secret Service. Why the Secret Service? Identity theft is a federal crime.
Next, send a copy of the police report or other documentation to all banks and companies where your name has been used fraudulently. You keep the original for your records in case any new accounts are opened.
Contact the fraud departments of the three major credit bureaus to get copies of your credit report and to have fraud flags and statements added to your reports. The reports are usually issued for free if you have been the victim of credit fraud. The three bureaus are: Equifax, (800) 685-1111, Experian, (888) 397-3742, and Trans Union, (800) 916-8800.
Request that each credit bureau have fraud flags and statements added to your reports saying that all potential creditors should contact you to verify applications for new credit. Ask the bureaus to clear the fraudulent accounts off your record.
You should also contact a lawyer. He may be able to get credit agencies or stores to pay more attention to your case if you are not getting proper attention.
How can you prevent thieves from stealing your identity?
The first action on this is to guard your personal information carefully. Don’t carry unneeded credit cards, keep track of your ATM, credit and debit cards that you do have in your wallet. Store transaction and sales receipts in a safe place or shred them. Do not carry your Social Security card, your birth certificate or other personal documents in your purse or wallet.
You should shred unneeded personal documents and mail with identifying information before throwing it out.
