Steps to Take if You Are a Victim of Identity Theft

Meadow Free Press
Meadow,ID,USA

* Advising any other individuals or organizations that can be potentially victimized by the identity thief posing as you. These may include your credit card companies, banks, credit or loan services, leasing organizations and companies you interact with (utilities, etc.). Be specific about all information you have incurred in regards to the identity theft. Utilize any aid they may be able to offer, and comply with any procedures they may ask you to do.

* It is most often best to contest bills and statements for goods or services you know you did not purchase or transacted yourself. This may result in threats due to the non-payment, but it will also open communication concerning the fraud.

* If you suspect that a thief is using your identity for criminal activities, notify the police. Be prepared to share with them any information you may have that may be useful to their criminal case.

* Credit cards must be canceled immediately if you feel the least bit concerned about their security. Credit card companies will accommodate you by issuing new cards.

* You may place a "stop" order on your bank account if you suspect your account may have been accessed without your authorization. This will prevent any further transactions from taking place and stop the identity thief from wiping out your bank account.

* Advise your bank if your check books have been stolen or you feel any of the checks are missing. Your bank will place a stop on unused checks.

* If you bank online, immediately change your PIN and passwords in case they may have been compromised.

* If you have lost any of your identification such as passport, driver's license or employee identification or pass, advise issuers right away and request replacements.

* If there is a possibility that your computer has been tampered with or accessed without your knowledge, scan it for spy ware as soon as time allows it. You should also change any passwords that may have been stolen.
* Give regard to your mail delivery that it is normal and there are no unauthorized orders of redirection.

* Create a file of everything you determine concerning the identity theft. Document all correspondence and request full details concerning money owed.

If you still do not feel secure about the handling of this matter, it is best to hire an identity theft attorney. If the legal impact of the theft is piling on you then such a lawyer is highly recommended. In most circumstances, people and companies will be sympathetic to your being a victim of identity theft. Approach the situation with tact and calmness and you will find many who will make an effort to help you.

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Mel Rapozo
Certified Identity Theft Risk Management Specialist
M&P Legal Support Services, LLC
(808) 645-0243 Direct
(800) 306-3063 Toll-Free
www.mplss.com