Identity Theft

A Guide For Victims

This information provides a listing of the major resources to contact in the event that you believe you are the victim of identity theft. Unfortunately, it becomes YOUR responsibility to resolve the problem. It is very important to act quickly to minimize the damage.

Credit Bureaus

Call the three credit reporting agencies immediately

  • Experian 1-800-682-7654
  • Equifax 1-800-685-1111
  • Trans Union 1-800-916-8800

    • Report the theft of your credit cards or numbers. Also, you should add a victim’s statement to your report, which states in writing that your credit cards have been used fraudulently. Ask the credit bureaus for any creditor names and phone numbers of new accounts that have been opened.

    Creditors

    Immediately contact all of your creditors with whom your name has been used fraudulently. Contact both by telephone (for rapid action) and in writing (for written verification). Ask for replacement cards with new account numbers, and ask that the old accounts show as “closed at the consumer’s request.”

    Fraud Verification Requirements

    Banks may ask you to fill out a fraud affidavit and ask that it be notarized. If you are unable to provide them with a notarized affidavit, a written statement and supporting documentation should be sufficient.

    Law Enforcement

    Any crime of this nature should be reported to the authorities immediately. Be sure to keep a copy of the police report. Some credit card companies require a police report to verify that the crime occurred.

    Stolen Checks

    Put stop payments on all outstanding checks that you are unsure of. Cancel your checking and savings accounts and open new accounts with new account numbers. Report any stolen checks to the check verification companies.

    ATM Cards

    If your ATM card has been stolen, report it immediately. Get a new card and a new account number. When you receive the new card be sure to use a new password. When choosing a password, try not to use any common numbers or numbers that are easy to figure out, such as birthdates, phone number, or social security number.

    Drivers License Number

    If someone is using your driver’s license number on bad checks, you may have to change your driver’s license number. You must call the Department of Motor Vehicles to see if another license was issued in your name. You must also fill out the DMV complaint form to begin the fraud investigation process. Send the complaint form and all supporting documents to your local DMV investigation office.

    Fraudulent Change of Address

    Notify the local Postal Inspector if you suspect an identity thief has filed a change of your address with the post office or has used the mail to commit credit or bank fraud. Find out where fraudulent credit cards were sent. Notify the local postmaster for your address to forward all mail in your name to your own address.

    Phone Service

    If your long distance calling card has been stolen or you discover fraudulent charges on your bill, cancel the account and open a new account. Change your password, and do not use a password that is easy to figure out such as your birthday or social security number.
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