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.
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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.
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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.
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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 phishingWhile you can't always prevent identity theft, you can reduce your risk.
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Disposing of Records Containing Personal Information
Almost everyone has records containing personal information (Social Security number, financial information, medical history, etc.) around their home. You can help protect yourself from identity theft by properly destroying your old paper and digital records when you no longer need them.
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Linda's Story: Her Victim's Statement (Bari Nessel Case)
I am one of Bari Nessel's victims.
Read MoreTim'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.
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Rex's Story: Army Retiree Became an Identity Theft Victim Through Illegitimate Military ID
Rex retired from the Army in 1999. In July of last year, someone was able to get a military ID from Fort Bragg with his name and Social Security number. Using that ID and Rex's good credit history, that person was able to buy cars, motorcycles and open credit card and checking accounts.
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