Identity Theft

If you find many errors on your credit report, you may be the victim of identity theft. Identity theft is when someone uses your personal information such as name, social security number, birth date or credit card numbers. Thieves may use your personal information to start credit card or bank accounts in your name. Any bad checks or unpaid bills will be reported on your credit report.

If you feel that you may have been a victim of identity theft, contact the Federal Trade Commission's Identity Theft Hotline toll-free 1-877-IDTHEFT. You should also:

• Contact the fraud or security department of the three major credit reporting agencies. Tell them you are a victim of identity theft and ask them to place a "fraud alert" in your file. Ask for a free copy of your credit report. They are required to give you one if your report is inaccurate due to fraud.
• Contact your creditors about any accounts that have been changed or opened fraudulently. Ask to speak with someone in the security or fraud department.
• File a report at your local police station and get a copy of the police report so you have proof of the crime.
• Take action immediately and remember to keep records of your correspondence including the name of the person you spoke with and all pertinent records.

For more information about identity theft, refer to:

• www.consumer.gov/idtheft
  1-877-IDTHEFT (438-4338)
• www.fraud.org
  1-800-876-7060

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