Identity Theft
No One Expects to Be a Victim of Identity Theft, but When It Happens, It Can Be a Great Source of Stress and Financial Hardship.
This Identity Theft Guide provides victims of identity theft with the major resources to contact. You must act quickly and intentionally to minimize the damage.
In dealing with the authorities and financial institutions keep these guidelines in mind:
- Have a log of all conversations, including dates, names, and phone numbers.
- Note time spent and any expenses incurred, in case you can request restitution in a later judgment or conviction against the thief.
- Confirm conversations in writing.
- Send correspondence by certified mail, return receipt requested.
- Keep copies of all letters and documents.
Law Enforcement
Report the crime to your local police or sheriff’s department. You might also need to report it to the police departments where the crime occurred. Give them as much information as possible. Get a copy of the police report.
CreditBureaus
Immediately call the fraud units of the three credit reporting companies — Experian (formerly TRW), Equifax, and Trans Union. Report the theft of your credit cards or numbers and request a credit report (free to identity theft victims). Ask that your file be flagged with a fraud alert. Add a victim’s statement to your report. (“My ID has been stolen. Contact me at {your phone number} to verify all applications.”) Ask how long the fraud alert is posted on your file, and how you can extend it if necessary.
Stolen Checks
- CHECKRITE: 800-766-2748
- CHEXSYSTEMS: 800-428-9623
- CROSSCHECK: 707-586-0551
- EQUIFAX: 800-437-5120
- SCAN: 800-262-7771
- TELECHECK: 800-710-9898
- INTERNATIONAL CHECK SERVICES: 800-526-5380
U.S. Postal Inspector
ATM and Debit Cards
If your ATM or debit card has been stolen or compromised, report it immediately. Get a new card. You may be liable if fraud is not reported quickly. During regular business hours call: 912-236-4400 or 800-442-8877. After business hours call: 800-523-4175.
SSN misuse
Contact the Social Security Administration to report fraudulent use of your Social Security Number online or by phone at 800-269-0271. Order a copy of your Personal Earnings and Benefits Statement and check it for accuracy. The thief might be using your SSN for employment purposes.