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Identity Theft

Prevent identity theft.

Some people want to be just like you.

What is identity theft?

Identity theft is when someone steals your personal information like your name, address and Social Security number to commit fraud. With your personal information, an imposter can get lines of credit, apply for a job, and even drain bank accounts. So you can imagine the damage that can be done. Not a pleasant thought, is it? Well there is an upside. You can be cautious to protect your personal information, as well as take immediate action if you think your identity has been stolen.

Play it safe

No one is 100% immune to falling victim of identity theft. That’s a fact. But there are helpful do's and don’ts, so at least you’re not as vulnerable. Don’t worry. Moving to a remote island is not among the list of tips.

Do's and Don'ts...

  • Make sure the people you do business with protect your information.
  • Avoid carrying your Social Security card, birth certificate or passport unless absolutely necessary.
  • Do not use your mother’s maiden name as a password.
  • If someone you don’t know calls for your personal information, don’t give it out.
  • If you receive an email from a financial institution asking you to verify your account or personal information, do not reply. Call instead.
  • Shred personal documents before throwing them away including credit card receipts, old cards and pre-approved offers.
  • If you want to get rid of unnecessary risk, call 1-888-5-OPT-OUT and put an end to direct mail credit card offers.
  • If your driver’s license number is your Social Security number, ask the transportation department in your state for another number.


Early Signs

Identity theft comes without warning, and it can happen to anyone. Yes, even to you. But if you catch it early enough…you can prevent additional damage. Call the three major credit reporting agencies for your credit report to make sure everything is normal. And watch out for early signs…

  • Monthly credit card statements suddenly stop arriving.
  • Credit cards you ordered don't arrive when you expect them.
  • Strange bills in your name arrive in the mail.
  • You're denied credit for no apparent reason.
  • Collection agencies call for debts that don't belong to you.


A stolen identity

If your identity has been stolen, there are things you can and should do. First of all, credit cards are protected—to a degree—under the Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA), a federal law that limits your financial responsibility. Second, don’t beat yourself up. You didn’t do anything wrong. The imposter did. Third, the following steps should be taken right away and at the same time for your protection.


Take action

Immediately file an identity theft report with your local police. Provide them with as much documentation as possible including the accounts in question. Plus, make sure to notify all creditors and financial institutions in writing and by phone. Close stolen accounts, shred checks and ATM cards, too. You can get new account numbers.


Federal Trade Commission

Report the crime to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC can tell you the best way to resolve any issues. They can also put you in touch with helpful organizations.

Federal Trade Commission, Consumer Response Center

600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.

Washington, CD 20580

1-877-IDTHEFT

www.consumer.gov/idtheft


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