Recognizing identity theft

There are several signs you may be a victim of fraud or identity theft:

• Not receiving bills or other mail you should be getting
• Receiving credit cards you didn’t apply for
• Being denied credit for no reason
• Getting calls or letters about things you didn’t buy
• Being served court papers or arrest warrants for things you know don’t involve you

If one of the above has happened to you, it may simply be due to a clerical error. But never assume that it’s just a mistake – always look into it to find out for sure.

What to do if you’re a victim

1. Report the crime to the police immediately.
   • Be sure to get a copy of your police report or case number
2. Immediately contact your credit card issuers.
   • Get replacement cards with new account numbers
   • Ask that old accounts be processed as "account closed at consumer's request”
   • Follow up by writing a letter that summarizes your request to the credit card company
3. Place a fraud alert on your credit report
   • Alert all 3 credit reporting bureaus
   • Add a victim's statement to your report so that they must contact you to verify future credit applications
   • Credit bureau contact information
4. Correct any inaccurate information
   • Request that inquiries you didn’t initiate be removed from your report
   • Make sure your Social Security Number, address, name, employer, and other important information are all correct
   • Check to ensure all changes you requested have been made
5. File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission: Consumer Response Center
   Federal Trade Commission
   600 Pennsylvania Ave, NW Washington, DC 20580
   Toll-free: 1.877.FTC.HELP
   TDD: 202.326.2502
   www.ftc.gov/ftc/complaint.htm

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