Identity Theft

Identity theft is a serious crime. It occurs when your personal information is stolen and used without your knowledge to commit fraud or other crimes. Identity theft can cost you time and money. It can destroy your credit and ruin your good name.

Prevent Theft
To help prevent identify theft:
  • Don't give out personal information on the phone, through the mail, or over the Internet unless you know who you are dealing with.
  • Don't use an obvious password like your birth date, your mother's maiden name, or your Social Security number.
  • Keep your personal information in a secure place at home, especially if you have roommates, employ outside help, or are having work done in your house.
  • Never click on links sent in unsolicited emails. Use firewalls, anti-spyware, and anti-virus software to protect your home computer; keep them up-to-date. Visit On Guard Online for more information.
  • Protect your Social Security number.
  • Shred all financial documents and documents with personal information.
Stolen Identity Action Steps
If you know or suspect that your ID has been stolen:
  • Place a "Fraud Alert" on your credit reports, and review the reports carefully. The alert tells creditors to follow certain procedures before they open new accounts in your name or make changes to your existing accounts. The 3 nationwide consumer reporting companies have toll-free numbers for placing an initial 90-day fraud alert; a call to one company is sufficient
    • Equifax: 800-525-6285
    • Experian: 888-EXPERIAN (397-3742)
    • TransUnion: 800-680-7289
Placing a fraud alert entitles you to free copies of your credit reports. Look for inquiries from companies you haven't contacted, accounts you didn't open, and debts on your accounts that you can't explain.
  • Close Accounts. Close any accounts that have been tampered with or established fraudulently.
    • Call the security or fraud departments of each company where an account was opened or changed without your okay. Follow up in writing, with copies of supporting documents.
    • Use the ID Theft Affidavit to support your written statement.
    • Ask for verification that the disputed account has been closed and the fraudulent debts discharged.
    • Keep copies of documents and records of your conversations about the theft.
  • File a police report. File a report with law enforcement officials to help you with creditors who may want proof of the crime.
  • Report the theft to the Federal Trade Commission.
  • Your report helps law enforcement officials across the country in their investigations.

**Information provided on this web page comes from the Federal Trade Commission Identity Theft Brochure and website.