It's ID theft, but money's not the goal - San Diego Union Tribune

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What Do You Do If You Become An Identity Theft Victim

Identity theft victims are way too common these days. How does this happen? In spite of the best efforts of many organisations, crucial data such as credit card information, official records etc. can be stolen by hackers using sophisticated methodology. It may occur through stealing records from your workplace, hacking into computer records or simply conning the information out of gullible people through email scams and such like.

If you find yourself to be an identity theft victim you need to take steps immediately. you need to keep records such as copies and details of conversations and correspondence. Review your credit card report and if you find any discrepancy you should place a fraud alert immediately. This will stop any further damage. Just call up the toll-free fraud number and report your complaint of credit card fraud. When you do this you will receive a free credit report so that it can be reviewed and corrective measures can be taken.

When you know about a fraud close the account

As soon as you discover you are a victim of identity theft you should shut down the account from which you think the fraud has taken place. This will require calling and speaking to the concerned person in the security or fraud department of each company and, most importantly, following it up in writing. You include copies but, not the originals, of supporting documents. It is necessary to give notice in writing to credit card companies and banks and send these letters through certified mail so that you are able to document what the company received as well as when.

Ironically though, there might be a situation where you have to prove that you are an identity theft victim. This can be done when you show that it is not your signature in the application. You also need to file a report with the local police or the police in the community where the identity theft occurred. Make sure you obtain a copy of the police report or, at the very least, the number of the report. This will help in dealing with creditors who may require proof of the crime having taken place.

Identity theft victims should also file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission because based on such information these identity thieves can be tracked, identified and apprehended by law enforcement agencies. The Federal Trade Commission may also refer complaints of the identity theft victim to other government agencies or bodies so that further action can be taken. These cases need to be thoroughly investigated for violating laws that the agencies are responsible for enforcing. So, as an identity theft victim you may find yourself having to complete more than one report. Keep all your paperwork organised to save you time and aggravation.