Report Identity Theft
By Rick Hazeltine
Staff Editorial Writer
There are likely few experiences that are as unsettling as realizing your financial information has been compromised. Or, worse yet, there is someone out in the world using your identity to illegally purchase goods and services.
Although panic may be the first feeling that overwhelms you, it's important to stay calm and know how to report identity theft. The quicker you report identity theft, the better you can stop the damage being done to your finances and your life.
If you think you may be a victim, here's how to report identity theft:
- Place a fraud alert on your credit reports: By placing a fraud alert with the three credit bureaus, you can stop an identity thief from opening any more accounts in your name. After placing a fraud alert, immediately review your credit report and not just from one bureau. It's imperative that you be in contact with and review your credit reports from all three bureaus because there is an excellent chance the information one has is not identical to the other bureaus.
- Here's how to contact the three credit reporting bureaus: Equifax: 1-800-525-6285; Experian: 1-888-EXPERIAN (397-3742); TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289.
- Close Accounts: Although it may be inconvenient, it's very important to close any account you think has been breached by identity thieves. Call each company and speak with a representative of their fraud or security department to report identity theft. You will likely be able to get a new credit card to get you through, but make sure you use different Personal Identification Number (PIN).
- Get the Police Involved: Once you've secured your credit and other financial accounts, make sure to file a report with your local police department. You may also want to file a report with the police department where the identity theft occurred if it is different from where you live. The reason you want to report identity theft to the police is to make them aware that criminals are operating in their jurisdiction, but you will need a copy of the police report to help prove to your creditors that you are a victim of identity theft.
- Report Identity Theft to the FTC: It's also a good idea to report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission, the arm of the U.S. government that oversees consumer protections, among other functions. At first glance, it may not seem important for one person to report identity theft to a huge government agency, but it is an important step. Everyone who takes the time to report identity theft to the FTC helps law enforcement from around the nation find identity thieves. It also helps the FTC in recommending ways to avert identity theft in the future.
