We've all heard the horror stories about fraud that's committed using your name,address, SS#, credit, etc. Unfortunately it happens to someone somewhere everyday. The take your credit cards and order cell phone packs,applied for a new credit card,get credit approved to buy computer and can even get a pin number from the DMV to change your driving record information on-line,and more.

But here is some critical information to limit the damage in case this happens to you or someone you know.

As everyone always advises,cancel your credit cards immediately; but the key is having the toll free numbers and your card numbers handy so you know whom to call. Keep those where you can find them easily.

File a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where it was stolen. This proves to credit providers you were diligent, and is a first step toward an investigation( if there ever is one).

Here is perhaps the most important: call the three national credit reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and SS#.

There are records of all the credit checks initiated by the thieves purchases.

To check what is on your credit report you can contact Equifax: 1-800-525-6285, Experian: 1-888-397-3742 and Trans Union: 1-800-680-7289 and the Social Security Administration(fraud line)1-800-269-0271

Learn more about this author, Dianne Reinert.
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