When a person fraudulently assumes or changes your identity for financial gain
If Someone has stolen your identity, take the following actions immediately !
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Contact the fraud department of each of the three major credit bureaus
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Tell them to flag your file with a fraud alert
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Have the creditors get your permission before opening any new accounts
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Ask the credit bureaus for copies of your credit reports
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Review your reports carefully for any accounts that may have been tampered with or opened
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Contact any of the creditors for any accounts that may have been tampered with or opened
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Follow up with a letter to meet the procedures of the Fair Credit Billing Act
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In a few months order new copies to verify your corrections and changes and to make sure that no new fraudulent activity has occurred
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File a report with your local police department or the police in the community where the identity theft took place
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If your social security card is stolen contact the Social Security Administration
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If your driver's license is stolen contact your Department of Motor Vehicles
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Use a password for account changes (not maiden name, birthdays, etc.)
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Report Fraud |
Order Credit Report | |
|
Equifax |
800-525-6285 |
800-685-1111 |
|
Experian |
888-397-3742 |
888-397-3742 |
|
Trans Union |
800-680-7290 |
800-916-8800 |
|
Social Security |
800-772-1213 | |
|
Federal Trade Commission |
877-438-4338 | |
|
American Express |
800-528-4800 | |
|
Discover |
800-347-2683 | |
|
Master Card |
800-826-2181 | |
|
Visa |
800-336-8472 |