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| Defend
against ID theft |
Defend against ID
theft as soon as you suspect it
● Place a “Fraud Alert” on your credit reports, and review
the reports carefully.
The alert tells creditors to follow certain procedures
before they open new ac counts in your name or make changes
to your existing accounts. The three nationwide consumer
reporting companies have toll-free numbers for placing an
initial 90-day fraud alert; a call to one company is
sufficient:
Experian: 1-888-EXPERIAN (397-3742)
TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289
Equifax: 1-800-525-6285
Placing a fraud alert entitles you to free copies of your
credit reports. Look for inquiries from companies you
haven’t contacted, accounts you didn’t open and debts on
your accounts that you can’t explain.
● Contact the security or fraud departments of each company
where an account was opened or charged without your okay.
Follow up in writing, with copies of supporting documents.
Use the ID Theft Affidavit at
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/
to support
your written statement. Ask for verification
that the disputed account has been dealt with and the
fraudulent debts discharged. Keep copies of documents
and records of your conversations about the theft.
● File a police report. File a report with law enforcement
officials to help you correct your credit report and deal
with creditors who may want proof of the crime.
● Report the theft to the Federal Trade Commission. Your
report helps law enforcement officials across the country in
their investigations.
Online:
https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/
By phone:
1-877-ID-THEFT (438-4338)
or TTY, 1-866-653-4261
By mail:
Identity Theft Clearinghouse,
Federal Trade
Commission,
Washington, DC 20580
Your police department is available to assist you. For
local assistance and information contact the Pembroke Pines
Economic Crimes Unit.
By phone: (954) 431-2200
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