Identity Theft

As “Identity Theft” continues to be on the rise, it is as important as ever that citizens know how to take steps to protect themselves. It seems the problem has grown larger from day to day, and with technology moving faster, thieves are becoming smarter. From a law enforcement standpoint it has become increasingly difficult to bring these culprits to justice. Thieves stop at nothing to steal your identity, then think of every possible way to conceal theirs. Now, I don’t want to paint a grim picture here, but I believe that the public has a right to know how to protect themselves.

WHAT IS IDENTITY THEFT?

Identity theft is defined by Oregon Law (ORS-165.800) if a person, with the intent to defraud, obtains, possesses, transfers, creates, utters (passes) or converts to the person’s own use the personal identification of another.

PERSONAL IDENTIFICATION is defined as name, address or telephone number; a person’s driving privilege; social security number; person’s signature; date of birth; identifying number on a bank account etc…

HOW DO I PROTECT MYSELF?

Before revealing any personal identifying information, find out how it will be used, and who, if anyone it will be shared.
Pay attention to billing cycles, follow up with creditors if bills don’t arrive on time.
Guard your mail from theft, NEVER mail a check or envelope containing your personal information out from your own mailbox.
NEVER give out personal information over the phone or internet UNLESS you have initiated the contact.
Keep items with personal information in a safe place, DO NOT carry your social security card or other vital documents other than your drivers license in your purse or wallet

If you are a victim of Identity Theft call your local Police Department to report it!

The Three Major Credit Bureaus all have the capability to flag your personal information for potential fraud. If a Credit Bureau has your personal information and anyone attempts to obtain credit or fraudulently use your personal information, the Credit Bureau will notify you. You will need to contact only one of the below listed credit bureaus, they will alert the other two. They have different ways of obtaining your information and you will probably be on the phone for awhile, so be patient. In the long run you’ll be glad you did!

EXPERIAN (TRW)
1-888-397-3742
Your voice will be recorded when you are asked for your personal information.

EQUIFAX
1-888-766-0008
You will be asked to punch in your personal information on the phone.

TRANS UNION
1-800-680-7289/OPTION #2 (Consumer Relations)
You will be asked to fax your request to alert your account. Fax to Trans Union Consumer Relations at 714-447-6032. You must include your full name, ssn, dob, home address, home phone and work phone. The alert request must be in writing on this fax.