There are a lot of ways in which identity theft can happen, but whichever method is used, the result is always the same; the identity thieves misuse your personal identifying information in a way that severely affects you, your personal records, and your reputation, including your credit, health and employment history.
In case you become a victim, what do you need to do?
Every case of identity theft is unique. Nonetheless, experts offer the following basic advice for a quick and wise response to any signs suggesting that you may be a victim of identity theft. Regardless of your particular case, follow the steps below if you suspect identity theft.
- Analyze your situation
Determine exactly how you have been affected because there are different types of identity theft. In case you’re a victim, your case may fall in one or more of the following categories; banking, credit, employment, taxes, criminal, medical, and government benefits.
- Submit a fraud alert with a national Credit Reporting Agency (CRA)
Get in touch with one of the three CRAs – Trans Union, Experian, or Equifax – to minimize the risk of identity thieves opening accounts in your name without your authorization. Once you alert one agency, they will alert the other two on your behalf. Moreover, after placing a fraud alert, you’re entitled to a free credit report from all three agencies.
- Examine your financial accounts
Close any account opened without your authorization. After researching on how to check for identity theft, close any of your accounts that have any suspicious activity after.
- Check your computer for viruses
If you access sensitive online accounts using your computer, hackers may have infected it with malicious programs with the aim of stealing sensitive data you enter while making online transactions, such as credit card or bank information. If you suspect your computer has been compromised, scan for and remove viruses with a reliable antivirus.
- Make sure your proof of identity is secure
You will likely be required to submit a completed affidavit and provide proof of your identity. The Federal Trade Commission’s ID Theft Affidavit will do.
- File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Alert the FTC about your situation in order for them to collect information for use in law enforcement nationwide. When filing your report, you may print a copy to show the police, file it online, or call the FTC directly.
- File a police report
While the police may not pursue the matter, they will take the report. This is a useful step as it provides proof that you reported the matter to the police. To assist you in organizing important information, prepare the FTC ID Theft Complaint beforehand.
- Request for your credit reports and review them
After placing a fraud alert, the CRAs will provide you with confirmation letters that will guide you on how to request for a free credit report. Alternatively, you can obtain a free copy of your report from each CRA using the Annual Credit Report Request Service.
Bio:
Sara Clark is a debt management consultant and guest author on numerous personal finance websites aimed at providing advice on how to check for identity theft and steps to take after noticing identity theft.
