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Identity Theft Can Happen to Anyone: Protect Yourself
It is important to know what to do in the case of suspected identity theft. Below
are resources for consumers and businesses to stay informed and report identity
theft.
Visit http://www.idtheft.gov/ and click on "Taking Action" for
links to federal agency Web pages on ID theft.
Credit Bureaus
Contact the fraud departments of each of the three major credit bureaus and tell
them that you're an identity theft victim. Request that a "fraud alert" be placed
in your file, along with a victim's statement asking that creditors call you before
opening any new accounts or changing your existing accounts.
- Equifax
To report fraud: 1-800-525-6285
Or write: P.O. Box 740241, Atlanta, GA 30374-0241
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- Experian
To report fraud: 1-888-EXPERIAN (397-3742)
Or write: P.O. Box 9532, Allen, TX 75013
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- TransUnion
To report fraud: 1-800-680-7289
Or write: Fraud Victim Assistance Division, P.O. Box 6790, Fullerton, CA 92634
Monitor your credit at
www.annualcreditreport.com
Federal Trade Commission
If you've been a victim of identity theft, you can file a complaint with the Federal
Trade Commission (FTC). Call the toll-free number or visit the Web site listed below
for more information.
Identity Theft Clearinghouse Federal Trade Commission
600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20580
FTC Identity Theft Hotline: 1 (877) IDTHEFT or 1 (877) 438-4338
www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/
The Federal Trade Commission also provides an online guide to help businesses safeguard
sensitive data. Visit http://www.ftc.gov/infosecurity.
Social Security Services
If you believe someone is using your Social Security number, report it to the Social
Security Administration Fraud Hotline at 1.800.269.0271. You can also visit your
local Social Security office or the agency's web site at: http://www.ssa.gov/reach.htm.
United States Post Office
If someone has taken your identity by stealing your mail, report it to your local
postal inspector. Contact your local post office or visit http://postalinspectors.uspis.gov.
Lost or Stolen Debit Cards
(800) 500-1044
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