When you become a victim of identity theft

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by Dana Coyle

Created on: January 19, 2009

If identity theft happens, it is important to stay calm and ACT QUICKLY. Being proactive and following these steps will put YOU in control and can bring effective results sooner, while reducing the stress and frustration that comes with identity theft.

1) TAKE PREVENTATIVE MEASURES NOW

A. Copy both sides of these items and keep the copies locked in your safe, file cabinet or desk.

Credit Cards, Retail Store and Gasoline Charge Cards

Driver's License and Social Security Card

Insurance Card(s)

Membership, Club Cards and Library Cards

Voter Registration Card

B. Copy one statement from every checking and savings account you have and keep these copies securely locked up with the items listed in 1a.

C. Don't carry the following items with you in your wallet, purse or briefcase. Keep them locked in a safe place unless you need one of them for a specific purpose.

Birth Certificate and Passport

Checkbook and Personal Identification Numbers (PIN)

Every single credit card you own

Social Security Card

2) KEEP A DETAILED RECORD OF EVERYTHING

Start a file folder labeled ID Theft to keep all paperwork in. Include a note pad for keeping a log of everything that you do regarding the matter including the names of people you talk to, date and time of the conversations, and hard copies anything that you email, mail or fax. It is easier to take the time to make a few notes while it is fresh in your mind than to try and fill in the blanks later in the process.

3) FOLLOW THE NOTIFICATION LETTER

If you received a letter from a company notifying you of a data security breach, follow the instructions listed in the letter. It may include credit monitoring services that need to be activated as well as details on how to get a free copy of your credit report.

4) FILE A POLICE REPORT

Be sure to request a copy for your files. NOTE: If the police will not make a report, document dates and names showing that you attempted to follow the procedures recommended by the Federal Trade Commission.

5) CONTACT THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION (FTC)

You can call them at 1-877-ID-THEFT (1-877-438-4338) or go online to www.ftc.gov, go to "Identity Theft" listed under the Quick Finder section. File a complaint with the FTC and keep a printed copy, as this will be used to create an Identity Theft Report in #10.

6) CANCEL YOUR CREDIT CARDS

This includes all retail and fuel accounts. Call the issuer(s) immediately at their toll-free numbers. The phone number should be on your monthly statement or on the back of the card. Remember,

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