How Can You Tell If You Are A Victim

If an identity thief is opening credit accounts in your name, these accounts are likely to show up on your credit report. To find out order a copy of your credit reports. Once you receive your reports, review them carefully. Look for inquiries from companies you haven’t contacted, accounts you didn’t open, and debts on your accounts that you can’t explain. Check all information, like your social security number, address(es), name or initials, and employers. Be sure they are correct. If you find fraudulent or inaccurate information, get it removed. Continue to check your credit reports periodically.

Look for additional signs of identity theft such as:

• Failing to receive bills or other mail. Follow up with creditors if your bills don’t arrive on time. A missing bill could mean an identity thief has taken over your account and changed your billing address to cover his/her tracks
• Receiving credit cards that you didn’t apply for.
• Being denied credit or being offered less favorable credit terms, like a high interest rate, for no apparent reason.
• Getting calls or letters from debt collectors or businesses about merchandise or services you didn’t buy.