Fraud Tip of the Day - November 11

Detect Identity Theft

Detecting identity theft is the first step towards repairing your credit and your good name. Monitor your financial accounts for suspicious activity on a regular basis. Being vigilent is one of your best defenses against ID theft. Below are several signs your identity may have been stolen. If you notice any of these signs take immediate action!

Warning signs your identity may have been stolen:

• Bills that don't arrive when you expect them to.
  
  
• Credit card or financial account statements arrive that you never signed up for.
  
  
• You are unexpectedly denied credit.
  
  
• Calls, letters or emails regarding purchases you didn't make.
  
  
• Loans statements arrive for loans you never requested.
  
  
• Debt collectors harrass you about debts you know nothing about.

Where to look for signs your identity has been stolen:

• Your credit report. Your credit report includes information about you such as your financial accounts and your payment history.
  
  
  • The law requires the major nationwide consumer reporting agencies - Equifax, Experian and TransUnion - to give one free copy of your credit report each year upon request.
  • Visit www.AnnualCreditReport.com or call 1-877-322-8228, a service created by these three credit reporting companies, to order your free annual credit report. You can also request your credit report via US Mail by writing to: Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta Georgia 30348-5281.
• Your financial statements. Casrefully look over your financial accounts and billing statements on a regular basis. Be wary of any charges you can't recall making or activity you view as suspicious.

More Identity Theft Tips