Identity theft is a serious crime that can have devastating consequences. If you believe you've been a victim, it's crucial to take immediate action to protect your personal information and minimize the damage. Here's a guide on how to file an identity theft report in Wisconsin:
1. Gather Necessary Information
Before filing a report, collect the following information:
- Personal identification: Your name, Social Security number, date of birth, and driver's license number.
- Contact information: Your current address, phone number, and email address.
- Victim information: If someone else is a victim of the identity theft, gather their information as well.
- Details of the theft: Document how you discovered the theft, any suspicious activity you've noticed, and the types of accounts or information that have been compromised.
2. Contact Your Financial Institutions
Notify all financial institutions, including banks, credit unions, credit card companies, and loan providers, about the identity theft. Close any accounts that have been compromised and request new account numbers.
3. Place a Fraud Alert with Credit Bureaus
Contact the three major credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion) to place a fraud alert on your credit report. This will make it more difficult for someone to open new accounts in your name. You can also request a credit freeze, which places a complete stop on new credit activity.
4. File a Police Report
File a police report with your local law enforcement agency. Provide them with as much detail as possible about the identity theft and any evidence you have. The police report will be essential for documenting the crime and taking further action.
5. File a Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Complaint
The FTC maintains a database of identity theft complaints. Filing a complaint can help law enforcement agencies track trends and identify patterns of fraudulent activity. You can file a complaint online at IdentityTheft.gov.
6. Monitor Your Accounts and Credit Report
Regularly monitor your bank and credit card accounts for any unauthorized activity. Review your credit report regularly to check for new accounts or inquiries that you didn't authorize.
Additional Tips
- Change passwords: Update passwords for all of your online accounts, including email, social media, and financial institutions.
- Be cautious of phishing scams: Be wary of emails, phone calls, or text messages that ask for personal information.
- Review your billing statements: Carefully review your monthly bills for any unusual charges or activity.
- Consider a credit freeze: If you're not planning to apply for new credit, a credit freeze can provide an extra layer of protection.
By following these steps and taking proactive measures, you can help mitigate the damage caused by identity theft and protect your personal information.
Attorney Nathan DeLadurantey offers free consultations to explain your legal rights in Wisconsin. Free consultations can be scheduled online.