How to Report Identity Theft

submitted: Apr 17th 2008 | by: PaulWilcox | Total views: 5 | Word Count: 348 | PDF View | Print Article

Identity theft has now become a major problem. It grows more each year and can nearly destroy people in the process. If this happens to you, you need to know how to report it. It's important that it's reported in order to solve it and keep it from happening to someone else.

Steps to Report Identity Theft

There are several steps a person should take to report identity theft and protect themselves from financial harm as best as they are able to.

Report your situation to your local police department. If they do not have the ability to help you, they can refer you to someone who can. They may also be able to direct you on who you should contact (on or in addition to this list) and how to contact them.

Inform the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). You can call their toll free number 877-IDTHEFT or access them through their web site. Make this one of your first calls as they can guide you through the rest of the process.

Let your bank and credit card companies know. Close all your accounts and credit cards but remember to let the financial companies know what's happening. They will appreciate knowing as soon as possible and will be more willing to help protect you.

Notify the Social Security Administration (SSA). If you let them know that your social security number has been jeopardized, they can see if you are eligible for a new number and make sure that reported earnings are correct.

If the theft has any potential ties to terrorism or buying or selling social security numbers, make sure you contact the Office of the Inspector General.

Contacting your credit reporting agencies is also a must. They can watch for further activity on your reports and by informing them, you are more likely to recover from this problem with your credit still intact.

You can make your position more complicated if you don't let the right people know. The sooner you can report identity theft, the sooner the authorities have of trying to catch the person or people responsible. This could help future victims.

About the Author

Concerned about identity theft and other internet threats? Learn how to set up solid internet security so you don't get attacked on the net. Get more helpful tips and information at http://www.securitymanor.com


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