Ruestman: Protecting Your Identity

One of the biggest issues facing individuals today is identity theft. A few years ago, my office produced a booklet entitled “A Privacy Survival Guide”. This week I’d like to highlight some of the key information highlighted in that booklet.

How Secure is Your Credit Report?

You should check your credit report at least once a year for inaccuracies and fraud. Federal law allows you to get a free credit report once a year by going to www.annualcreditreport.com or by calling 877-322-8228.

If you do find an error or fraudulent activity on your report and you believe you’ve been the victim of identity theft, please take note of the following steps:

1. Contact the three credit reporting companies at:
   • Equifax 800-685-1111
   • Experian 888-397-3742
   • TransUnion 800-888-4213
   Ask that your file be flagged with a fraud alert. Add a victim’s statement to your report and request that they contact you to verify all applications.
2. Contact all creditors immediately with whom your name has been used fraudulently, by phone and in writing.
3. Report the crime to your local police or sheriff’s department.
4. If your Social Security Number has been misused, call the Social Security Administration offices to report the fraud at 800-772-1213.

Prevention is very important. One of the many ways you can prevent identity theft is by opting out of pre-approved credit card offers. With one phone call to 888-5OPTOUT you can notify all three credit bureaus that you do not want to receive pre-approved offers.

If you would like more on how to protect your identity, please contact my office. My information is provided below.

If you have problems, questions or wish to express concern over an issue, please do not hesitate to contact me or my Legislator Assistant, Jonathan, at my Capitol office either by phone 573-751-9801 or by e-mail at Marilyn{dot}Ruestman{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov.