If you’ve been a victim of identity theft, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common crimes in the United States and worldwide. Many people have no idea what to do when they realize their identity has been taken. The most important thing is:
Don’t ignore it!
Identity theft can occur in many different ways, including:
- credit card fraud
- false applications for new credit
- fraudulent bank account withdrawals
- fraudulent use of phone calling cards
- fraudulent use of an IP address in order to commit illegal acts online
- fraudulent use of medical care (including fake prescriptions)
- social security fraud, often used for false tax and employment purposes.
Even if you’re not sure you’re a victim of identity theft, but suspect you might be, go ahead and take the following steps to protect yourself.
Place a 90-Fraud Alert on Your Credit Report
This lets potential lenders and creditors know that they should take extra steps to verify your identity before extending credit. All you have to do is contact on of the three credit reporting agencies (Experian, Equifax, or TransUnions), and when you make the singular alert, the other companies will automatically be notified.
Or if you want to make extra sure identity thieves can’t continue to harm you…
Place a security freeze on each of your credit reports. When you do this, no creditors will be able to access your credit reports, except those with whom you already have a credit account. If you eventually want a legitimate credit application to be processed, you’ll have to individually follow each agency’s procedure for “thawing” your credit report. If you’re interested in placing a freeze on your credit reports, with this option, you’ll have to contact Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion separately.
Contact your bank, credit card companies, DMV, etc.
When you realize that your identity has been stolen, contact any institutions that may have been affected by this event. Get in touch with your bank, credit card companies, DMV, etc. Explain the situation so they can make a note in your file and prevent further damage and fraudulent actions. Pay special attention to your social security number, and if you have any doubts about whether it has been compromised, contact the Social Security Administration and Internal Revenue Service right away.
Then officially complain
Next you’ll need to file some official complaints—and after all the tedious paperwork and unending phone calls, you’ll probably be ready to let out a nice long complaint. Contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and file an Identity Theft Affidavit and an Identity Theft Report. Then the FTC will let you know what to do next, depending on what kind of fraud has occurred in your particular case.
Last but most importantly, contact a lawyer
Chambers Law Firm has dealt with many identity theft cases, and we can provide you with the legal guidance and representation you need. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 714-760-4088.
