Different types of identity theft may require additional steps on your part to restore your good name. If you are the victim of these specific types of identity theft, you may wish to consider taking these steps in addition to the three steps for all identity theft.

Credit Card/Charge Card: If new accounts have been opened in your name, use the fraudulent account affidavit to dispute them and have them closed. If your existing accounts have been compromised, have new account numbers assigned to you and make sure they are password-protected. Never use your mother's maiden name, your birthday, or any part of your Social Security number as your password. Dispute all fraudulent charges on your accounts.
Bank Accounts/Stolen Checks/ATM and Debit Cards: If your bank account has been compromised, close the account and open another, and make sure that the new account is password-protected. If your checks have been stolen, stop payment on the missing checks and consider closing the bank account. Notify the major check verification companies so that they can let retailers know not to accept your checks. If your debit or ATM card is lost or stolen, contact the company immediately, and follow up in writing. Request a new card with a different number and password. Be aware that the amount of stolen money you are liable for is based on how quickly you alert the bank that your debit/ATM card has been stolen. Depending on the kind of bank you are dealing with, different institutions regulate the banks' practices. If you are having a problem with your bank, ask your bank which institution regulates it or visit www.ffiec.gov/enforcement.htm to determine which institution you should contact.
Social Security card/number: If your Social Security number or card has been stolen, contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213. You should know that the Social Security Administration has very stringent requirements for obtaining a new Social Security number. Even if you do get a new Social Security number, having a new number could cause you additional problems. When you contact the Social Security Administration, advise them of the fraudulent use of your Social Security number and request that they provide you with a statement of your earnings so that you can verify that it is correct.
Utilities/telephones/cell phones: If utilities, telephone service, and/or cell phone accounts have been opened in your name, notify the companies in writing that you dispute the accounts. You may also contact the Federal Trade Commission for fraud involving long distance providers and cellular phones.
Criminal Record Information: If you suspect that an identity thief has used your identity to avoid arrest or to commit a crime, contact the Alabama Bureau of Investigation. You may also want to contact the law enforcement office where you suspect your identification was fraudulently used.
Mail Theft: If you suspect that your mail has been stolen or that someone has fraudulently changed your mailing address, contact the United States Postal Inspection Service Southeast Division at 404-608-4500.
Passports: If you suspect that your passport is lost or has been stolen, contact the United States Department of State at (202) 955-0430 or the State Department's website at www.travel.state.gov/passport for more information.
Bankruptcy: If someone has used your name to file for bankruptcy, contact the United States Trustee in the region where the bankruptcy was filed.

Consumer Protection » Identity Theft: Additional Tips for Specific Types of ID Theft

Additional Tips for Specific Types of Identity Theft

Consumer Protection » Identity Theft:
Additional Tips for Specific Types of ID Theft