“Actions You Should Take If Your Wallet is Stolen!”
Theft and burglaries are on the increase and we’re contributing to the problem. Admit it! We’re all guilty of leaving our purse or valuables in the car while we make a quick run into our house, the kids’ school, sport practices, church, neighbors or even taking the dog for a quick run around the park. The problem is it only takes a few seconds for a thief to smash your window, and dash off. Here are some quick actions you should take if you’re wallet is stolen: *Contact all Credit Bureaus. These companies are: Equifax 1.800.525.6285, Experian 1.888.397.3742 and Trans Union 1.800.680.7289. Ask for fraud alert to be placed on your account. Add “victims” statement to your file requesting that you be contacted should any accounts tried to be open in your name. *File police report immediately. * Contact credit companies for copies of your credit report to ensure fraudulent accounts haven’t been opened in your name. In a few months, contact them again to review reports and make sure no changes have been made or unauthorized activities have occurred. *Report loss to bank *Get new ATM and new PIN numbers. *Report missing license to DMV. *Change locks if keys were stolen. *Watch for calls from debt collectors, being denied credit, or start receiving credit cards that you didn’t request as it may be a sign of fraudulent activity. *If you find you’ve been a victim of identity theft call the FTC at 1.877.438.4338 and file a complaint.
