If you have become a victim of identity theft, it's easy to feel alone in this awful situation, but you're not. Almost 10 million Americans a year fall victim to this crime, but there are steps you can take to regain control of your identity - and your life.
Maybe it was your wallet being stolen from your purse, or your information online hacked for illegal purposes. Whatever the reason that you first discover your identity was stolen, try not to panic. It may sound easier than done, but it will go a long way towards your mental health and stability when putting your life back in order. Take deep breaths, count to ten - whatever relaxation techniques you usually use to calm yourself, and prepare to fight for your identity. It's always a shock to realize that someone else has your private and sensitive information, but the damage has already been done, so start working on reclaiming what's yours.
First, report the theft to your local law enforcement agencies and the Federal Trade Commission. If you suspect your identity was stolen through the mail, let the post office know. It's then time to let financial institutions know of the theft. Contact your local bank and flag your accounts for fraud, letting them know your identity was stolen. Make sure everyone you do financial business with is aware of the situation, including credit card companies, mortgage brokers, loan companies, etc. You might want to close these accounts and move your assets to a secure location with a fraud alert.
You should then contact the three major credit reporting bureaus - Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian - and ask that a fraud alert be placed on your account, which will freeze all releases of your information for 90 days. Request a copy of your credit report to monitor any activity that might have recently occured. If you find discrepancies or anything suspicious, notify the credit reporting agencies immediately to start the dispute process, which can clear up misinformation.
Once your identity is starting to belong to you again, make sure you are on high alert for this activity so it doesn't happen again. Keep your Social Security number in a safe place, and not in your waller or purse. Pay your bills online to deter account theft, and stop all pre-approved credit card offers, which are easy to snatch from mailboxes. Monitor your credit regularly, and be thankful you've gotten your identity under control.
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