Identity Theft

What is Identity Theft?

Identity theft is when an individual's personal information such as social security number, date of birth, financial information, etc. is stolen and used by another person. The person who stole the victim's identity uses it to open a new credit card account, purchase unauthorized items, etc. Identity theft is a federal crime.

Here are steps to take if you become a victim of identity theft:

1. Call the companies where you know fraud occurred.
   • Explain someone stole your identity. Ask them to freeze or close your accounts. This way no more transactions can take place on the account.
   • Change logins, passwords, and PINs on all your accounts.
     
     
2. Place a fraud alert and get your credit report.
   • To place a free fraud alert, contact one of the three credit bureaus.
     • Experian.com/help
       1-888-397-3742
     • TransUnion.com/credit-help
       1-888-909-8872
     • Equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services
       1-800-685-1111
   • To get your free credit report from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion, go to annualcreditreport.com or call 1-877-322-8228.
     
     
3. Report identity theft to the FTC (Federal Trade Commission)
   • Go to https://www.identitytheft.gov and include as many details as possible. FTC will create an identity theft report and start a recovery plan.
     
     
4.  If you choose to do so, you can file a report with your local police department.
   • Bring the following documentation when you go to file a report:
     • Copy of your FTC Identity Theft Report
     • Government issued ID with photo
     • Proof of your address (mortgage statement, utility bill, bank statement, Homeowner's/Renter's Insurance)
     • Any proof you may have of the theft - bills, IRS Notices, etc.
   • Tell the police that you are a victim of identity theft and want to file a report.
   • When completed, ask for a copy of your police report. You may need this to complete other steps.  

All TruCommunity Bank locations have information on identity theft in their lobbies. Please feel free to stop in and pick up brochures.

If you would like more information on identity theft, please visit https://www.identitytheft.gov