Data theft occurs when someone obtains key pieces of your personally identifying information, such as your name, address, birthday, phone numbers or Social Security Number (SSN). Identity theft occurs when that information is used for any fraudulent or other unlawful purpose. The unlawful acquisition of personal identifying information does not necessarily mean that identity theft has occurred. This distinction is important when considering any response you might wish to make to the disclosure of your SSN. A list of contact information is provided at the end of this guide.
Periodically monitor your credit reports by requesting a copy of your credit report from each of the major credit bureaus.
Recent changes under the FACT Act amendments to the Fair Credit Reporting Act entitle consumers to one free credit report within any 12 month period from each of the three major bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion). For more information on obtaining free credit reports, visit https://www.annualcreditreport.com or call 1-877-FACTACT.
The credit bureaus will charge a fee for ordering additional copies of your credit report. Order the copies directly from one of the major credit bureaus. Avoid ordering credit reports from third-party credit agencies over the Internet, since many sites that seem to offer you a free credit report may actually attempt to charge you or require you to buy additional services to get the report. Be cautious if requested to provide personal information over the Internet unless you are absolutely sure of the validity of the site.
To order a credit report from one of the three major credit bureaus, visit their websites or call their toll-free numbers:
Once you have received a copy of your credit report, look for any accounts that you don't recognize, especially accounts opened recently. Look at the inquiries or requests section for names of creditors from whom you haven't requested credit.
Some inquiries, labeled something like "promotional inquiries" are for unsolicited offers of credit, mostly from companies with whom you do business. Don't be concerned about those inquiries as a sign of fraud. (Note: If you place a fraud alert (See Section 'What is a Fraud Alert and How do I Place One?') on your account, you are automatically removed from lists to receive unsolicited pre-approved and pre-screened credit and insurance offers. You can also stop those offers by visiting https://www.optoutprescreen.com or calling 1-888-5OPTOUT)
Look in the personal information section for addresses where you have never lived. Any of these things might be indications of fraud. Also be on the alert for other possible signs of identity theft, such as calls from creditors or debt collectors about bills that you don't recognize, or unusual charges on your credit card bills.
If you find items you don't understand on your report, call the credit bureau at the number given on the report. Credit bureau staff will review your report with you. If the information can't be explained, then you will need to call the creditors involved and report the crime to your local police or sheriff's office.
If you find errors in your credit report, informing the issuing credit bureau at the phone number located on the report to have the information removed or corrected.
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