Stop Identity Theft
How can someone steal your identity?
Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information such as your name, Social Security number, credit card number or other identifying information, without your permission to commit fraud or other crimes.
Identity theft is a serious crime.
People whose identities have been stolen can spend months or years - and their hard-earned money - cleaning up the mess thieves have made of their good name and credit record. In the meantime, victims may lose job opportunities, be refused loans, education, housing or cars, or even get arrested for crimes they didn't commit.
To prevent from being a victim of identity theft:
- Check your credit report annually
- Don't give out personal information
- Review your bills and statements on a regular basis
- Guard your mail and trash from theft
- Shred items that contain personal information
- Copy the contents of your wallet or purse
- Report lost or stolen checks or credit cards immediately
For more information on preventing Identity Theft contact: www.texasbankers.com.
If you feel you have been a victim of Identity Theft, contact your bank or the Federal Trade Commission Identity Theft Hotline at 1-877-IDTHEFT (438-4338).
