Identity theft victims are those people that loose simply
because someone has stolen their identity and run up their
bills. If you are victim of Identity Theft you are well-aware
how difficult it can be to get back on your feet again. Identity
Theft victims often have to go through a series of steps to
repair their credit and identity. Once the victim has made
contact with the 3 credit bureaus they often put a Freud Alert
on your credit report, which is supposed to be a protection to
you, but the truth is it is a 'mistake' since it labels the
victim.
If you go to apply for a loan or credit card it is likely you
will receive a rejection in the mail. So, is there a solution
for Identity Theft victims and how can they repair the credit?
First, it is important to avoid Identity Theft by protecting
your Social Security Card, Driver License and other important
information about yourself. However, if you are already in the
credit bureaus labeled under the Freud Alert, then you may find
yourself giving up.
Identities are stolen in several ways. The Internet is swarming
with predators waiting to mess up someone else's life. People
may stand over your shoulder peeking down at you while you are
keying in your PIN number at the bank. You might have been in a
relationship and the person decides he/she owns you and when you
break up that person takes your identity.
There are several ways that your Identity can be stolen. The
solution is then protecting your identity with shields that no
one can break through. If you are a victim of Identity Theft
then your identity needs to be protected more so than ever. This
sounds crazy since someone already has your ID. You will need to
stay alert to the activities that affect your credit report. It
is important that you keep updated copies of your reports at all
time. If you notice activity, immediately dispute the claims
against you. Be sure to file a police report since you will need
these reports to show the 3 bureaus and others that your
identity has been stolen.
Once you receive the reports be sure to send copies to each
credit bureau so that the companies can get you on record. The
companies are going to put up a Freud Alert once the copies are
evaluated. Here is where you need to stay alert. Instead of
Freud Alerts, the companies can put up a FREEZE on your
accounts. A Freeze gives you the options that Freud Alerts will
not. For example, if you go to a bank and apply for a loan with
a Freud Alert on your accounts, most likely you will be turned
down.
However, if the banks see that you have a FREEZE on your
accounts, they will investigate and possibly give you the loan.
Freeze means that someone has affected your life by stealing
your identity, while Freud means that someone has committed a
criminal act on your account, and that someone could very well
be you. You will also need to report any checks that you suspect
were stolen.
Monitor your banking account at all times to make sure that no
out of place activities are going on. It is important that you
alert your utility providers and anyone that you have open
accounts with. If you have credit cards report them immediately
to get replacements.
You may even want to cancel your current bank account and open a
new account. This will offer a source of protection. It is also
important that you contact your Social Security Office to find
out if your Social Security has been used out of place. If
actions have been listed on your card, be sure to let the Social
Security Administrators know. Making others aware of what is
going on in your life, can spare you additional headaches. You
are already a victim of criminal behaviors, why not take the
steps to repair your credit and restore your life.
Finally, you will need to contact Washington D.C. or the
Identity Theft Clearinghouse, Federal Trade Commissions and let
them know you are a victim of Identity Theft.
About the author:
Tony Robinson is a business owner with vast experience in all
facets of Credit and Credit Repair - for further tips and
techniques visit
http://www.officialdebtfree.com
