IDENTITY THEFT ACTION STEPS

I hope this never happens to you, but if you're the victim of identity theft, act quickly and follow these steps:

1. Contact the fraud divisions of the three major credit reporting agencies (Equifax 888-766-0008, Experian 888-397-3742, TransUnion 800-680-7289). Ask them to put a fraud alert on each credit report.

2. Contact the creditors of all accounts that may have been jeopardized and request new account and PIN numbers. Ask for written verification that the old account number was "closed" and that it will be removed from your credit file.

3. File a police report. It may be required by some creditors.

4. Report fraudulent activity to the Federal Trade Commission's identity theft hotline 877-438-4338.

5. Contact any financial institutions where your accounts may be compromised.

6. Keep a log of all conversations with police, creditors, and credit agencies, including contact names, dates, times, and phone numbers.

7. Retain copies of everything that's related to your case.

8. Send correspondence to creditors and credit agencies by certified mail, return receipt requested.

9. Keep track of all expenses, such as stamps and certified mail. If your case comes to trial, you may be eligible for restitution.
Source: Thrivent