Fixing the effects of identity theft can take time, money, and patience. However, there are a number of resources available to make the process as painless as possible. These include:
IdentityTheft.gov - A website that allows you to report identity theft and make a recovery plan;
Federal Trade Commission (FTC) - Offers online resources, checklists, and sample letters;
Indiana Attorney General - File an initial report by calling 800-382-5516 or complete the online form.
As you complete the following, be sure to:
- Create a log of all telephone calls.
- Send all letters by Certified Mail, Return Receipt Requested.
- Create a filing system for all documents, i.e. police report, letters, claim forms.
- Keep a calendar. Note all days, such as when you make calls, file reports, or mail documents.
1. Place a Fraud Alert on your credit report and request a copy from all three reporting agencies. (Placing the Fraud Alert on your account entitles you to a free copy.)
a. Equifax 800-525-6285
b. Experian 888-397-3742
c. TransUnion 800-680-7289
2. Renew this initial Fraud Alert after 90 days.
3. Create an Identity Theft Report. This requires:
- File a complaint with the FTC or 877-438-4338 via “Complaint Assistant.” The completed complaint is the FTC Identity Theft Affidavit.
- Take your FTC Identity Theft Affidavit and file a police report. Be sure to get a copy of the report and report number.
FTC Identity Theft Affidavit + Police Report = Identity Theft Report
6. Now you have the information you’ll need to correct the damage caused by identity theft. If any of your CSB accounts were fraudulently accessed, please let us know immediately and we’ll take appropriate action.
If you have experienced identity theft or have question relating to this topic, contact us by clicking below.
The views, information, or opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of Citizens State Bank and its affiliates, and Citizens State Bank is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any information contained in this article or items hyperlinked within. This is for informational purposes and is no way intended to provide legal advice.
