It seems as if every day we hear about some new data security breach, whether it involves a bank, an internet service provider, or even the IRS. These breaches can have devastating consequences, including identity theft. Because of these potential dangers, it’s a good idea to have a plan of action in case your identity is stolen. A new website from the Federal Trade Commission, www.identitytheft.gov, can help. It provides instructions on what to do immediately (such as calling the companies where the fraud occurred, getting a credit report, and alerting the authorities) as well as long-term steps you might want to consider (such as an extended credit freeze). The site also includes warning signs of identity theft, rights of identity-theft victims, and sample letters you can use to dispute credit card charges or deal with debt collectors.
It seems as if every day we hear about some new data security breach, whether it involves a bank, an internet service provider, or even the IRS. These breaches can have devastating consequences, including identity theft. Because of these potential dangers, it’s a good idea to have a plan of action in case your identity is stolen. A new website from the Federal Trade Commission, www.identitytheft.gov, can help. It provides instructions on what to do immediately (such as calling the companies where the fraud occurred, getting a credit report, and alerting the authorities) as well as long-term steps you might want to consider (such as an extended credit freeze). The site also includes warning signs of identity theft, rights of identity-theft victims, and sample letters you can use to dispute credit card charges or deal with debt collectors.
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