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Identity theft has become a growing problem in the nation over the past years. A increase in identity crimes has also seen a large increase in Sheboygan County. Someone with your name, address, date of birth, social security number, or banking account numbers would be able to open new credit accounts, apply for loans, or make purchases with your name.

Many people are very careful with their personal information, but there is no guarantee that a criminal will not obtain that information. Below, there are some warning signs to look for regarding identity theft, ways to protect yourself, and what to do if you have become a victim.

Warning Signs:

Many times, people will not be aware if they are a victim of identity theft, however if things should raise concern if you notice them.

-Your monthly credit card or bank statements stop arriving

-You receive bills from companies you do not recognize

-You are denied credit for unknown reasons

-Collections agencies are contacting you about debt that does not

belong to you

Protecting yourself:

Though not a guarantee, the following are some measures you can take to help protect yourself.

-Be sure your bank, employer, medical provider, and other business do not

share your information with others.

-Never carry items such as your Social Security Card or Passport with you unless necessary.

-Put as little information as possible on your checks. Avoid putting phone

numbers, driver's license numbers, or Social Security numbers on them.

-Do not give any identifying information over the telephone or Internet to

someone you don't know. Also avoid doing this on a cellular or cordless phone.

-Be sure to review your credit report on a regular basis from the three

national credit reporting agencies.

-Destroy any old credit cards or cards you no longer use, after closing the

accounts. Destroy any financial statements or credit offers you receive

in the mail.

You have become a Victim:

You have followed all the suggestions you have ever heard about protecting yourself, but you have become a victim of identity theft. What do you do now?

-Keep accurate records of all correspondence with creditors

-Keep accurate records of all correspondence with government agencies.

-Notify your banks, and all creditors that you have become a victim of

identity theft.

-Immediately contact local law enforcement.

-Contact the Federal Trade Commission. The FTC keeps records on all

identity theft crimes, making them available to all law enforcement

agencies to assist them in their investigations.

-Contact the three credit reporting agencies and utility companies.

These are just some steps you can take when dealing with identity theft. If you have questions please refer to the links on this page. The resources listed are here to assist you in protecting yourself.

To File a complaint with the Federal Government www.ic3.gov

Information on Identity Theft

www.ftc.gov

www.consumer.gov/idtheft

Social Security Adminstration www.ssa.gov

Free Credit Reportswww.annualcreditreport.com

Telephone Contacts

Information on Identity Theft

1-877-IDTHEFT

Social Security Fraud Hotline

1-800-269-0271

Credit Bureaus