Identity theft crimes are growing fast nowadays. It can definitely be a stressful and frustrating process to go through when someone steals your Social Security number, and when that information is misused to commit fraud against you. It is extremely necessary and important to take immediate action to protect yourself and minimize any further damage.
Place an alert on credit accounts
Your credit should be valued and taken very seriously. As soon as you find out your personal information is in the hands of someone else, you must quickly contact one or all credit reporting institutions along with any other financial companies in which you have ties with. Placing a fraud alert on the existing accounts will prevent any unwanted users from making use of your social security number and also opening up unwanted accounts in your name.
Equifax 1-800-525-6285 www.equifax.com
Experian 1-888-397-3792 www.experian.com
Transunion 1-800-680-7289 www.transunion.com
Once these agencies are aware that your personal information may have been tampered with, you can request from all reporting companies one fee credit report where you can begin to review and monitor any suspicious activities and have fraudulent items reported and removed as soon as possible.
File a police report
Fraudulent is a crime and by filing a police report at your local police station, this gives you the opportunity to protect yourself if anybody has misused your information without your permission.
Notify the Social Security Administration
Visit your local Social Security Office or contact by phone immediately.
1-800-772-1213, www.ssa.gov/
They will be able to review your information in a case where someone is using your social security number for any reasons such as taxes or employment. It can become a frustrating situation if you are held responsible for someone else’s poor judgments.
File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commissions
You can call their toll free identity theft hot-line 1-877-438-4338, www.ftc.gov/
When your personal information has gotten in the hands of a potential threat, this allows them to act as if they were you. They will be able to open up bank accounts, and apply for multiple loans including credit cards with your personal identification, after which all activities will start to appear on your credit history.
Taking the necessary steps to protect your identity is vital. Your Social Security number allows you to receive certain government benefits, employment, Social Security retirement income, bank loan accounts and other advantages you may qualify for.