Identity Theft

Protecting Yourself Against Identity Theft
The following questions and answers regarding identity theft will help you recognize opportunities for identity theft and protect yourself and others.

Q: What is identity theft?
A: Identity theft is a federal crime in which someone wrongfully obtains and uses another person’s personal information in a fraudulent or deceptive manner.

Q: What can I do to help prevent identity theft?
A: You can prevent identity theft by safeguarding your personal information. Here are steps you should take to prevent identity theft:

• Shred bank statements
• Cut up unwanted pre-approved credit cards before throwing them away
• Don’t give out your Social Security number unless it is absolutely necessary
• Protect all passwords

Remember:

• Passwords aren’t just for financial statements. Whenever possible, put passwords on all your accounts, including telephone and utilities. Avoid entering any password into a device when connected to an unsecured Wi-Fi connection, such as at a coffee shop or airport.
• When selecting a password, avoid easily available information such as your mother’s maiden name, your children’s names or your birth date. Use a minimum of eight characters and mix up numbers, letters, and symbols in the password.
• Carefully review every cell phone bill, credit card statement and bank statement
• Keep virus protection and a firewall on personal and workplace computers up to date
• Don’t walk away from your computer with personal information on the screen
• Once a year get a free copy of your credit report at www.annualcreditreport.com

Get a copy of your credit report
Equifax – (800) 525-6285 or equifax.com
Experian – (888) 397-3742 or experian.com
Trans Union – (800) 680-7289 or transunion.com
Carefully review every cell phone bill, credit card statement and bank statement
Keep virus protection and a firewall on personal and workplace computers
Don’t walk away from your computer with personal information on the screen

Q: What do I do if I suspect identity theft?
A: If you suspect there might be a problem or exposure, contact the police immediately. Also contact your bank and credit card companies, and the following major credit agencies:
Equifax – (800) 525-6285 or equifax.com
Experian – (888) 397-3742 or experian.com
Trans Union – (800) 680-7289 or transunion.com

You should also learn more about identity theft from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau:

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
1700 G Street, Northwest
Washington, DC 20552