Prevent ID Theft

Suggestions for helping prevent ID theft:

  • Shred all documents, including pre-approved credit applications, bank statements, & personal information.
  • Check credit report at: www.annualcreditreport.com.
  • Watch out for scams via phone, email/internet, or other.
  • Create hard-to-guess passwords.
  • Update virus protection for your computer, use a firewall program and use a secure browser.
  • Do not download files from an unknown source.
  • Check monthly statements and immediately report any unauthorized charges.
  • Never give out personal information over the phone, such as your social security number, date of birth, mother’s maiden name, credit card number, or bank PIN code, unless you initiated the phone call or know exactly who you are dealing with
  • Visit www.AnnualCreditReport.com or call (877) 322-8228, a service created by these three companies, to order your free credit reports each year.

You also can write:

Annual Credit Report Request Service
P.O. Box 105281
Atlanta, GA 30348-5281

How to prevent ID theft when your wallet/purse has been stolen or lost?
  • Cancel all credit cards immediately! (Note: If someone calls to say they found your wallet/purse and will return it to you shortly, they might be stalling you so they can continue to use your credit cards)
  • Tip – have the toll free numbers and your credit card numbers handy so you know whom to call. Do not keep this info in your wallet or purse.
  • Contact the bank if your checkbook or ATM card was stolen
  • File a police report immediately - this is very important and aids in crime prevention. Remember to keep a copy for your records and to provide to your creditors if necessary.
  • File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at www.consumer.gov/idtheft. This helps them to track and prevent ID theft.
  • Place a fraud alert on your name and social security number by contacting all of the following agencies. This alert means that they have to contact you by phone to authorize new credit:
  • Equifax (800) 525-6285
  • Experian (888) 397-3742
  • Trans Union (800) 680-7289
  • Social Security Administration
  • Fraud Hotline (800) 269-0271