Identity Stolen? Here’s What You Should Do

Though you try to protect yourself, your identity can still be stolen. Here's what to do if it happens to you.

The Ulster County District Attorney's Division of Consumer Affairs advises people to take the following steps if they become a victim of identity theft.

• Record Keeping - Be sure to keep records of all correspondence with the creditors and agencies you contact. Follow up all telephone calls with a letter and keep a copy.
• Creditors -  Notify all creditors and financial institutions, in writing and by phone, that your name and accounts have been compromised.
• Federal Law Enforcement - Report the crime to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at identitytheft.gov
• Credit Reporting Agencies - Contact the three national credit reporting agencies by phone (Equifax 1-800-525-6285; Experian 1-888-397-3742; Trans Union 1-800-680-7289)
• Utility Companies - Ask utility companies to watch out for anyone ordering services in your name
• FBI -  if the identity theft was internet-related, file an FBI Internet Crime Complaint at ic3.gov

Consumer Affairs can be reached at (845) 340-3260.

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