helping victims of identity theft

1) File a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where your credit cards, purse, wallet etc. were stolen. This proves to credit providers you were diligent, and this is a first step toward an investigation (if there ever is one).

2) Call immediately to cancel your credit cards. The key is having the toll-free numbers and your card numbers handy so you know whom to call. A great program where you can keep all your personal information in one safe place is Hearthsidesoftware. It is user friendly and is a great tool in organizing your personal information.

3) Call the 3 national credit reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and also call the Social Security fraud line number. (I have made a list of contact information at the end of this book.) I had never heard of doing that until advised by a bank that called to tell me an application for credit was made over the Internet in my name. The alert means any company that checks your credit knows your information was stolen, and they have to contact you by phone to authorize new credit. Order a free credit report and they will alert all three of the major credit organizations:
Experian, Equifax and Trans Union

4) You can place a "freeze" or "fraud alert" on your credit reports with these three agencies. This means that credit issuers cannot access your credit files without your permission. This prevents an unauthorized person from opening up new credit or loan accounts unless you give permission. In most States this is free of charge or for a small fee (well worth the peace of mind).

5) If you discover charges on your current accounts that are fraudulent, contact the creditor immediately by phone and follow up in writing. Do not pay these charges. It may take time, but follow through with the creditors' policies to get the charges removed. If your ATM card was used (yes, they can choose credit instead of debit and they will not need a pin#) dispute the charges with your bank. Most banks will work with you in this matter. Again, it may take time and some cards are better protected than others but do not give in. It could be costly.

6) If you suspect an unauthorized change of address with your mail has occurred, contact the local postal inspector. This is mail fraud and a federal offense (if they are ever caught and prosecuted).

7) Identity thieves often establish new cell phone accounts using the stolen information with the bills left unpaid. Contact the carrier and follow their instructions in disputing these charges. Sometimes thieves will open up student loans in your name, take the money, and leave the bills unpaid. If this happens, contact the school where the loan was established and request that the account be closed. Report it to the Department of Education.

8) Call the Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) to see if another license was issued in your name. If your State has a fraud alert, place it on your license number.

9) A service that I highly recommend is called Lifelock. Lifelock will cover all of the above things for you AND give you peace of mind for your future personal information. It is 10$ a month for an adult but mention this ebook and the cost will be 9$ a month. For less than what you probably spend on a few cups of java a month, you can rest easy that your information is safe. Lifelock will also cover a child under 16 for 25$ a year. Again, a bargain for peace of mind.

www.lifelock.com

10.) Be prepared for a rollercoaster ride with your emotions. This is normal. Remember that you are not alone. There is no need for embarrassment. Let your friends and family be your support team. Talk about your feelings with them. It will help you to work through your emotions and it will help them understand how to help. Getting organized and taking action will help you feel like you are not powerless in this chaotic situation. Stay positive and do not forget the rest of your life. Try and keep a balance!