Protect Yourself from Identity Fraud

Although this is the season of giving, more many it is the season of taking. You need to be alert and aware so that no one steals your identity, steals your wallet or steals your purse. If you find yourself in a situation where you have had your personal information stolen, including but, not limited to your driver’s license, credit cards, debit cards or other account information, here are some steps that you need to take immediately:

1. Report all credit cards *STOLEN* and close all credit card accounts. If you still want the account, open another with a different number. Balances will transfer to the new account. Call a few days later to make sure the account was CLOSED.

2. Immediately call one of the following credit reporting agencies. One call will notify the other two agencies. Place a “FRAUD ALERT” on your credit report. You will be given a reference number and have the option to talk to an operator (usually). You will also be allowed to get a free credit report from each agency.

Equifax: 1-800-525-6285

TransUnion 1-800-680-7289

Experien 1-888-397-3742

3. Immediately call the “ID Theft Hotline” at 1-877-438-4338. Place a FRAUD ALERT”. You will be given a reference number. (This is different from the above agencies)

4. You may want to sign up for the 24/7 monitoring service through one of the credit agencies. You can also do this before any theft occurs. The cost is approx $130-150/yr. It will monitor your accounts, credit report, social security number, etc. and alert you within 24hrs of any activity. You can also lock your credit report to prohibit potential fraudulent activity such as new accounts being open in your name. Talk to a representative for complete monitoring information as each company may have different options.

5. Change your mailing address. (ex: PO Box). ID theft often involves getting your mail and looking at statements, credit card offers, etc. Mail will stop and be forwarded to you at the new address within 7-10 days.

6. Contact all of your creditors and anyone you pay bills to. Notify them immediately of your new mailing address. Contact friends and family as well. (don’t forget notices you may receive only once or twice a year such as taxes, insurances, etc).

7. Change your bank account numbers immediately. (savings, checking) Even if no activity took place, it can still happen months from the theft date.

8. If you social security numbers were stolen, it is extremely important that you monitor your credit reports and all accounts. Numbers can be used months to years in the future.

9. If your drivers license was taken also, the License Bureau requires three pieces of ID and $9.00 for a new license.

10. Take out what you don’t need in your wallet. Make copies, back and front, of any credit cards, insurance cards, etc. Keep TX numbers for reporting possible thefts in a secure place which is easily accessible by you. The 800 numbers for reporting can be kept in your cell phones.

11. Never keep PIN numbers in your wallet.

12. Call the police immediately. Notify the appropriate agency for where the wallet (or your ID) was stolen and where any transactions took place. Jurisdictions may vary. Give them as much information as possible. Also remember, many stores will tape over their surveillance videos so it’s important to act quickly. (both you and law enforcement).

13. Remember, tis the season……..expect more ID thefts and use of banking instruments during the holiday season. Always look at your receipt before leaving the register. If you use a debit card, make sure additional funds were not withdrawn as cash without your authorization for personal use.

14. Finally, be aware of your surroundings at all times. Keep your wallet or purse with you or in a secure area. Remember where you parked.

15. If you determine that a charge has been made at any local store, you need to contact that store immediately and ask them to reserve the tape. Many stores will tape over the previous day’s surveillance tape and you may loose your evidence.