Identity Theft

ID Theft or Identity theft is where someone illegally gains access to your personal information in order to commit fraud or other crimes. This type of crime is on the rise and many people have found their personal information compromised. Some of the types of information stolen include social security numbers, birth date, mother’s maiden name, credit report, driver’s license and credit card or bank account numbers.

How to prevent Identity Theft

• Check your credit report every 12 months. You can get a free credit report by calling 1-877-322-8228 or going online Credit Reports.

• Always shred mail or documents containing personal information including social security numbers, account numbers or other sensitive information.

• Be very careful when giving out information on the telephone or internet. Don’t respond to emails or telephone calls requesting information. Find the phone number to the company online or in the phone directory and return their call to ask if the request is legitimate.

• Check statements routinely. Monthly credit card and bank statements should be analyzed as soon as they arrive. Report any unauthorized charges as soon as possible.

• Consider a locking mailbox. Deposit all out-going mail in a postal box; don’t leave mail in your mailbox for someone else to pick up. Likewise, all promotional offers could be taken out of an unlocked mail box. Consider stopping preapproved credit offers by calling 1-888-567-8688.

If you are a victim?

• Keep a file of all documentation regarding the crime including police reports, proof from the fraudulent accounts and the free ID theft affidavit from the Federal Trade Commission (www.ftc.gov/idtheft).

• Use Fraud Alert Statements on credit bureaus. Each credit bureau can issue a 90 day initial alert or an extended alert for up to 7 years. Any new credit will take longer and must be verified before granted by a creditor in order to protect you from further problems.

• Get additional resources. The Federal Trade Commission provided educational materials and complaint forms at www.ftc.gov/idtheft or by phone on their identity theft hotline 1-877-438-4338.