WHAT
IS IDENTITY THEFT ? ?
When someone uses your
personal identification information without your knowledge to fraudulently
open a line of credit, order a new service or open a checking account and
writes checks in your name--your identity has been stolen.
-- What
can you do if you become a victim of Identity Theft?
--
There are several things
that you need to address immediately upon discovering what you suspect to be
identity theft. One important step is to contact one of the three nationwide
credit-reporting agencies: Equifax, Experian, or Trans Union to notify them of
the suspected fraud. The agency you contact will then electronically forward
your information to the remaining two. A fraud alert will be attached to your
credit file within 24 hours to warn potential creditors against extending new
credit accounts without contacting you for approval.
Credit Bureau Associates
