What to Do If You’re a Victim of Identity Theft
Discovering that you’ve been a victim of identity theft can be overwhelming, but acting quickly can minimize the damage. Here’s what to do:
Step 1: Place a Fraud Alert
Contact the three major credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your credit file. Fraud alerts make it harder for thieves to open accounts in your name.
Step 2: Review Your Credit Reports
Obtain and review your credit reports for unfamiliar accounts or transactions. Report any fraudulent activity to the credit bureaus. Use Savvy Money within Home Banking and Mobile Banking to stay up-to-date on any changes to your credit reports.
Step 3: File an Identity Theft Report
Go to IdentityTheft.gov to report the theft and create a recovery plan. This official report can help you dispute unauthorized charges.
Step 4: Contact Your Financial Institutions
Notify Maine Family Federal Credit Union and any other financial institutions or credit card issuers about the theft. Request new account numbers and secure your accounts.
Step 5: Secure Your Personal Information
Change passwords for all your online accounts, especially those tied to sensitive information. Use strong, unique passwords for added protection.