How to find out if your a Victim of Identity Theft

How can I tell if I'm a Victim of Identity Theft?

Unfortunately most people do not realize they are a victim until the damage is done. So you should take steps now to prevent becoming a victim.

Monitor your monthly account statements and check for any unauthorized charges or other fraudulent activity.

Monitor your credit report at least annually to check for debts you can't explain, inquiries you didn't authorize,etc.

Be alert to signs that require immediate attention such as,

Bills that do not arrive as expected.

unexpected credit cards or account statements

Denials for credit for no apparent reason

calls or letters about purchases you did not make

If you find that you have become a victim of Identity Theft you should contact the following resources.

One of the three major credit reporting bureaus. Ask to have a fraud alert placed on your report. This way before any new accounts are opened you would have to be contacted and verify the information.

Fraud Dept. of the company where you think fraudulent activity occured. Ask that any accounts you do not recognize opened in your name or any accounts you suspect have been tampered with be closed.

Your Local Police Dept. File a report with your local police dept. Some company's may ask for a report to prove that there was a crime committed.

Federal Trade Commission. File a Identity Theft Complaint Form with the Federal Trade Commission to help Stop Identity Theft Criminals.

*Remember to always keep a log of all contact names, number, dates, times, etc. of all calls made and documents mailed dealing with your Identity theft.