How to Protect Yourself: Attorney's Advice - No Charge

6. File a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where your credit cards, etc., were stolen. This proves to credit providers you were diligent, and this is a first step toward an Investigation (if there ever is one).

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But here's what is perhaps most important of all: (I never even thought to do this.)

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7. Call the 3 national credit reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and also call the Social Security fraud line number. I had never heard of doing that until advised by a bank that called to tell me an application for credit was made over the internet in my name. The alert means any company that checks your credit knows your information was stolen, and they have to contact you by phone to authorize new credit. KEEP THEM IN YOUR WALLET.

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1.) Equifax: 800-525-6285

2.) Experian (formerly TRW): 888-397-3742

3.) Trans Union : 800-6807289

4.) Social Security Administration (fraud line):800-269-0271

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If you are willing to pass this information along, it could really help someone that you care about

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