What is Identity Theft?

Identity theft is a serious crime. It can disrupt your finances, credit history, and reputation, and take time, money, and patience to resolve. Identity theft happens when someone steals your personal information and uses it without your permission.

Red Flags of Identity Theft

• mistakes on your bank, credit card, or other account statements
  
• mistakes on the explanation of medical benefits from your health plan
  
• your regular bills and account statements don't arrive on time
  
• bills or collection notices for products or services you never received
  
• calls from debt collectors about debts that don't belong to you
  
• a notice from the IRS that someone used your Social Security number
  
• mail, email, or calls about accounts or jobs in your minor child's name
  
• unwarranted collection notices on your credit report
  
• businesses turn down your checks
  
• you are turned down unexpectedly for a loan or job
  

If Your Identity is Stolen

• Flag your credit reports
  
• Order your credit reports
  
• Create an identity theft report
  

The following are nationwide credit reporting companies that can assist you with these tasks:

Equifax 1-800-525-6285

Experian 1-888-397-3742

TransUnion 1-800-680-7289