Are you a Victim of Identity Theft?
First contact the fraud department of the three major credit reporting agencies. Tell them to flag your file with a fraud alert including a statement that creditors should call you for permission before they open any new accounts in your name.
These credit reporting agencies are (source -FTC):
- Equifax: (800) 525-6285 (800) 685-1111 www.equifax.com
- Experian: (888) 397-3742 (888) 397-3742 www.experian.com
- Trans Union: (800) 680-7289 (800) 916-8800 www.tuc.com
Second order your credit report. Verify the report for inaccuracies. If you have recently been turned down for credit, you are entitled to a free report. Otherwise, the charge is up to $8. (It’s a good idea to order a report at least once per year, to make sure there are no problems.)
Third file a police report at the station closest to your home. Send this report to the three credit reporting agencies listed above, along with a cover letter detailing the situation. These agencies are required to send the police report and your letter to any company requesting your credit information. Even ifthe police are reluctant to give you a report, insist on it -this will provide valuable information to your creditors.
Fourth contact the creditors for any accounts that have been tampered with or opened fraudulently. Ask to speak with someone in the security or fraud department and follow up with a letter to this person.
Fifth write a letter about the problem to:
Fraud Section Office of the U.S. Trustee
221 North Figueroa Street, Suite 800
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Provide as much information as possible, including all information and documentation you may have on who is stealing your identity!
