Report Identity Theft or Fraud

Posted on

If you think you've become a victim of identity theft or identity fraud, immediately contact us.

We are available to help you:

  • Close your accounts and open new ones
  • Replace your SMCB debit cards
  • Address your concerns

https://www.identitytheft.gov/ is a great resource for get started and learn more about recovery steps.

 Next Steps

Once you've contacted us, it's important that you take the following steps, and document whom you contacted (including the date and time and name of person that you talked to at each business):

  1. Call the major credit bureaus:
    • Equifax: (800) 525-6285 or visit Equifax.com
    • Experian: (888) 397-3742 or visit Experian.com
    • TransUnion: (800) 680-7289 or visit TransUnion.com
      First, ask that they place a "fraud alert" on your credit file. A fraud alert prevents creditors from changing your accounts - or opening new ones in your name - without proper verification. Then, request a free copy of your credit report. If you see any additional signs of fraud, notify the credit bureau and the creditors whose accounts are affected. After the disputed transactions are resolved, request another copy of your credit report to make sure your file has been updated.
  2. Call your other creditors - Including your phone and utility companies and let them know that you've been a victim of fraud. Close any accounts that may have been compromised. As a precaution, consider resetting all of your passwords.
  3. Inform check security companies about the fraud:
    • Chexsystems (Consumer Assistance) at (800) 428-9628
    • CheckRite at (800) 466-2748
    • TeleCheck (About TeleCheck) at (800) 710-9898
  4. File a police report if you think personal information (driver's license, address, etc.) has been compromised or stolen. Creditors may also want proof of the crime from law enforcement.
  5. Call the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) identity theft hotline at (877) 438-4338 or file your complaint online at www.ftc.gov.
  6. Be vigilant, patient, and persistent. It can take weeks, sometimes even months to resolve identity theft. Keep a close eye on all your statements, review your credit reports regularly, and immediately report any discrepancies.

Keywords

Security