What To Do If Your Identity Is Stolen

The Tredyffrin Police Department has passed along a report prepared by the Federal Trade Commission, with the aim of educating residents on the dangers of identity theft, and how they can protect themselves.

As the report’s introduction states:

Identity theft happens when someone steals your personal information and uses it without your permission. It is a serious crime that can wreak havoc with your finances, credit history, and reputation – and it can take time, money, and patience to resolve.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation’s consumer protection agency, prepared this guide to help you repair the damage that identity theft can cause, and reduce the risk of identity theft happening to you. If you suspect that someone has stolen your identity, acting quickly is the best way to limit the damage. Setting things straight involves some work. This guide has tips, worksheets, blank forms, and sample letters to guide you through the recovery process.

Some general, immediate steps people can take after learning that their identity has been stolen include:

• Placeing an initial fraud alert
• Ordering credit reports
• Creating an identity theft report.

All three are explored in detail in the 68-page document.

To read the report, click here.