If your Social Security number (SSN) has been compromised
1. Monitor Your Credit Reports: Request a free credit report from the three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—at AnnualCreditReport.com. Check for any suspicious activity or accounts you don’t recognize.
2. Place a Fraud Alert: Contact one of the credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your credit report. This alert will make it harder for someone to open accounts in your name. When you request a fraud alert with one bureau, they will notify the other two.
3. Consider a Credit Freeze: A credit freeze prevents creditors from accessing your credit report, making it difficult for identity thieves to open accounts in your name. You can lift the freeze when you need to apply for credit. You’ll need to contact each of the three major credit bureaus to do this.
4. Sign Up for Identity Theft Protection Services: Some companies offer monitoring services that alert you if there are any changes in your credit report or if your personal information is used to apply for credit. Some services also offer assistance in restoring your identity if it’s stolen.
5. Report Identity Theft: If you suspect your identity has been stolen, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov. They will help you create a recovery plan.
6. Monitor Your Financial Accounts: Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions. Set up alerts for any activity on your accounts.
7. File Your Taxes Early: Since Social Security numbers are often used for tax fraud, filing your taxes early can help prevent someone else from filing a fraudulent return in your name.
