Stolen Identity
It can ruin your credit. And that's just the beginning
When the worst happens . . . Victims of identity theft have a growing number of resources to guide them:
Credit bureaus. Victims of identity theft are entitled to free copies of their credit reports from the three major credit bureaus. To report fraud, call Equifax at (800) 525-6285, Experian at (888) 397-3742, and Trans Union at (800) 680-7289. If you want to obtain your report to check it, you can call Equifax at (800) 685-1111, Experian at (888) 397-3742, and Trans Union at (800) 888-4213.
Interest groups. The Privacy Rights Clearinghouse and the California Public Interest Research Group (CALPIRG) distribute a free fact sheet, "Identity Theft: What to Do If It Happens to You." Send a stamped, self-addressed envelope to Privacy Rights Clearinghouse, 1717 Kettner Avenue, Suite 105, San Diego, CA 92101 or visit its Web site at www.privacyrights.org. For details about the Victims of Identity Theft support group in California, write CALPIRG at 926 J Street, Suite 523, Sacramento, CA 95814, or E-mail pirg@pirg.org (subject: "VOIT"). Victims trade tips on how to deal with identity theft--emotionally as well as strategically. Other state chapters are forming.
Help from one who knows. Attorney Mari Frank of Laguna Niguel, Calif., whose own identity was stolen, has written From Victim to Victor: A Step-By-Step Guide for Ending the Nightmare of Identity Theft. It's pricey at $39.95 plus $6.95 for shipping and handling, but it's comprehensive--it includes sample letters to insurers and creditors. For more information, visit www.privacyrights.org/idtheftkit or call (800) 725-0807.
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