Identity Theft Info.
As our technology advances this issue is a growing problem. Identity theft is an insidious crime, involving a thief who assumes your name to open new accounts, divert your card statements to another address, and run up all sorts of bad debt without you ever knowing about it until collectors come calling. To top it off you have a limited amount of time to report the fraud or you may have to pay with your money, and your good name.
Over time, identity theft could jeopardize your ability to obtain further credit. The best way to catch a thief who is using your name is by getting a copy of your credit report on a regular basis, which will show you if there are accounts listed you know you haven't opened.
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For example, if a thief has intercepted a pre-approved credit card offer in your name and sent it in with a change of address,
your credit report will include the account. If you would like to get a free copy of your credit report right now,
click here.
Tips on protecting yourself from becoming a victim:
Do not carry a checkbook. Pay by cash or credit card.
Do not carry your Social Security card with you or use your Social Security number as your driver's license number.
Use a paper shredder. Shred any documents listing your social security number and other financial information such as your bank account numbers and credit card numbers.
If someone is using your identity and cashing your checks or credit cards, you should:
Report the situation immediately to your bank or credit card company. You may not have monetary liability because forgery and/or fraud is involved, but you will want the companies to be aware of the problem, as this is something that could affect your credit. In addition, follow these instructions to fully protect yourself:
Contact all three credit bureaus and issue a fraud alert. Check your credit report six months later and look for items you don't recognize.
Provide a copy of your driver's license to each agency's fraud unit in order to register an affidavit.
Contact the proper authorities in writing, via certified receipt request.
Inform your local police department, Social Security Administration and all creditors with whom you have accounts.
To get a free copy of your credit report and 30 free days of the CreditCheck ® Monitoring Service at no obligation
click here.
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