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Free Information: Identity theft and credit monitoring

Some background:  Why your ID is such easy picking

Identity theft has become more prevalent recently.  You can reduce your chances of becoming a victim.

• RARELY give out your Social Security number.  Unless you are in a banking / financial relationship with a firm, don't give it out.  They have no use for it.  
• Don't put your Social Security number on your checks.
• Check you current credit report.  Call these numbers and ask for your credit report:
  
  Equifax 800-685-1111
  Experian 866-200-6020
  TransUnion 800-888-4213
  
  
• Federal law requires the credit reporting agencies provide you with one free credit report per year.  You can access the report at www.annualcreditreport.com
• The companies above will try to get you to pay in order to see your report.  Don't!  They are required by Federal law to allow you one free credit report a year.
• You can now get your credit score online for free. Check out Creditkarma.
• Place the contents of your wallet on a photocopy machine, do both sides of each license, credit card, etc. You will know what you had in your wallet and all of the account numbers and phone numbers to call and cancel. Keep the photocopy in a safe place. Carry a photocopy of your passport when you travel either here or abroad.

If you are the victim of identity theft

• Most Important! Call the three national credit reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and Social Security number.  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.
• We have been told we should cancel our credit cards immediately. But the key is having the toll free numbers and your card numbers handy so you know whom to call. Keep those where you can find them easily
• File a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where it was stolen, this proves to credit providers you were diligent, and is a first step toward an investigation (if there ever is one).
  

last updated 04/28/08

Strategic Asset Management voice: 253-927-0998 email: solutions@sasm.com Strategic Asset Management is an investment advisory firm registered in Washington State.

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