Identity Theft

Here are a few ways to help keep your identity safe:

• Protect your Social Security number. Do not carry card in your wallet or write your number on a check. Give your number only when absolutely necessary.
  
• To thwart an identity thief who may pick through your trash, shred all financial information when it is no longer needed This includes all financial mail solicitations, insurance and investment information, etc.
  
• Do not give any personal information over the phone, through the mail, or on the internet unless you’ve initiated the contact and are sure you know who you are dealing with.
  
• Keep your personal information in a secure place at home, especially if you have roommates, employ outside help, or are having work done in your house.
  
• Watch out for internet scams. Phishing is an internet scam that occurs when a Web page is copied or imitated. People are scammed into giving out personal information on the internet.
  
• Always check you bank statement for accuracy.
  
• You are entitled to a free copy of your credit report once a year. To obtain a free credit report contact www.annualcreditreport.com or 888-322-8228.

Do the following if you become a victim of identity theft:

1. Contact the three major credit reporting agencies. Request that all new credit requests be approved by yourself and that a fraud alert be placed on your file.
   
   • Equifax: 1-888-766-0008
     
   • Experian: 1-888-397-3742
     
   • Transunion: 1-800-680-7289
     
2. Close any accounts that have fraudulent activity by contacting the security department of the financial institution or creditor.
   
3. File a police report. Request a copy of the report as creditors of financial institutions may ask for a copy of the report as proof of you claim.