IDENTITY THEFT
The Problem
Identity theft is a nationwide problem.
When someone gains access to your personal identifying information,
they can
- Obtain fraudulent credit accounts
- Secure deposits on cars and housing
- Obtain employment opportunities
- Create fraudulent insurance opportunities
- Rob your retirement savings
The Consequences
- YOUR credit could be destroyed
- YOU may have to spend countless hours on the phone
and in letter writing to try to resolve the situation
- YOU may experience difficulty in writing checks, obtaining loans,
renting an apartment or buying a home.
- YOU start to receive bills and demands for payment for purchases
that you never made.
Some Ways to Avoid Identity Theft or Lessen Its Consequences
- Do not carry extra credit cards, social security card, birth certificate
or passport in your wallet or purse.
- "Opt out" of receiving pre-screened credit card offers by calling 1-888-567-8688.
(The 3 major credit cards use the same telephone number.)
- Order a copy of your credit report each year.
To request a free copy, contact each of the credit reporting agencies directly:
Equifax (800) 685-1111 www.equifax.com
Experian (formerly TRW) (888) 397-3742 www.experian.com/freestate
TransUnion Request Form (800) 888-4213 www.transunion.