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Are there steps I can take to avoid identity theft if my Social Security number’s been stolen?

Yes. The first thing you can do is freeze your credit.

Is it possible for my child be a victim of identity theft?

Yes, if someone has stolen your child’s personal information, it’s possible for accounts to be opened in your child’s name. To determine whether this has happened, you can contact the three major credit bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, Equifax) to see if your child has a file.

Your Card’s Been Lost/Stolen: Next Steps

Articles

Your Card Is Lost/Stolen: Next Steps

When you realize that you’ve lost your card or it's been stolen, you’ll want to notify your bank or credit card company as soon as possible. If you’re not satisfied with their response, you can file a complaint with the

Guides

Protecting Your Social Security Number at Tax Time

It’s always important to protect your Social Security number (SSN), but it’s extra important to do so around tax time.

Q&A

Why is it important to protect my Social Security number?

A Social Security number can be used to steal your identity (commonly called identity theft) to commit fraud, open new credit and bank accounts, get medical care/other benefits and obtain employment.

Guides

Reducing Your Risk of Identity Theft

Others can get your personal information in many ways including

data breaches discarded documents stolen wallets/purses stolen mail phishing

While you can't always prevent identity theft, you can reduce your risk.

Stories

Linda's Story: Her Victim's Statement (Bari Nessel Case)

I am one of Bari Nessel's victims.

Stories

Tim's Story: Identity Theft Discovery

Tim recently discovered that he had been a victim of identity theft for quite some time. Through a phone call from Qwest Wireless' fraud department, he was informed that someone had been using his Social Security number, but they were not able to verify his city/zip and date of birth.