A victim of identity theft?

What if I become a victim of identity theft?

Here are steps you can take now to stop thieves from stealing your good name:

1. Do not give out personal information, such as account or credit card numbers, on the phone or over the Internet unless you have initiated the contact. Identity thieves could pose as bank officials, Internet providers or credit card company representatives. Remember: Those with a right to this information (such as your bank) should already have it and shouldn't need to request it over the phone.
2. Report lost or stolen checks immediately and properly store canceled checks. Examine new checks to be sure that none were stolen during shipment, and store them in a safe and secure location. Destroy unused financial solicitations before discarding them, and tear up other financial documents such as statements or receipts before discarding them.
3. Guard your automated teller machine (ATM) number, and treat your receipts with care. Leaving them behind or throwing them in the trash could leave them vulnerable to thieves, who could use them to access your accounts.
4. Make sure your mailbox is secure, and promptly remove mail after delivery. Identity thieves often raid mailboxes to obtain credit card offers and financial statements.
5. Contact the major credit-reporting companies at least annually to review their file. A copy of their credit report is available for a small fee. The three major credit bureaus are:
   • Equifax: (800) 685-1111
   • TransUnion: (800) 916-8800
   • Experian: (888) 397-3742

Steps to Report Identity Theft:

• Contact your bank or credit union to protect your accounts.
• Contact your credit card suppliers.
• Contact the Social Security Fraud Hotline: (800) 269-0271.
• Contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Identity Theft Hotline: (877) IDTHEFT or (877) 438-4338.
• Contact your Farmers agent to file a claim against your Identity Fraud Expense coverage endorsement.