Sometimes, even carefully protected and monitored information can be stolen by an identity thief. Here are the warning signs that your identity may have been stolen and the appropriate steps you should take to restore it.
How can you tell your identity is at risk?
• Unexplained charges or withdrawals appear on your bank account or credit card statements.
• Monthly bills or statements suddenly stop arriving.
• You are turned down for a credit request for no apparent reason.
• Your credit report contains information about accounts you didn’t open.
• Credit collectors ask for payment on credit cards or loans that aren’t yours.
• You start getting bills you don’t recognize for goods or services you didn’t buy.
• You receive credit cards for which you did not apply.
If you believe your personal information has been stolen and used to commit fraud or theft, act immediately to reduce the cost and damage to your money, credit and reputation.
Use the FTC’s online Identity Theft Tools to get the information, worksheets, sample letters and forms you need to resolve and prevent further damage.
Documenting everything now will help you later:
- It is vital to keep a log of all conversations, documenting all contact names, dates, times and phone numbers.
- List any money paid out for mailings, stamps, certified mail or other expenses.
- Follow up and confirm conversations in writing.
- Send correspondence by certified mail, return receipt requested, so that a company cannot deny responsibility by claiming they never received anything.
- Keep copies of everything related to the case.
The Security and Privacy information contained on the Virginia Commerce Bank public Web site is intended to provide general information only and does not attempt to give you advice that relates to your specific circumstances. You should consult an appropriate professional for specific advice tailored to your situation.
