Identity theft has become more and more common. With increased use of the Internet and various scams seeking personal information from you, it is important for you to protect your identity. Serious consequences may result if an unscrupulous person steals your identity. They can cause damage to your credit and reputation that could take years to erase.

What is identity theft?

Identity theft occurs when someone uses a personal piece of information, such as your name, your Social Security number, a credit card number, etc., as their own to commit fraud against you.

What can I do to protect myself?

There are several steps you can take to protect yourself against identity theft:

• Know the person you're dealing with. Check with the Better Business Bureau or local consumer groups before purchasing something from an unknown seller.
  
• Protect your privacy. Don't give out personal information to just anyone. Don't be afraid to question someone who is asking for personal information. Find out who they are and exactly why they need to information before giving it out. If you feel unsure, refuse to give the information.
  
• Don't cave in to high pressure sales tactics. Take your time to do research and investigate a company before making any purchases.
  
• Get a complete description of items being purchased. Inquire about shipping and handling fees and return policies.
  
• Pay with a credit card if possible. Most cards offer some protection for purchased items.
  
  Don't carry every piece of identifying information you own. You probably don't need to carry your Social Security card, extra credit cards, your passport and birth certificate. Only carry the minimum necessary at any one time.
  
• Remove your name from mailing lists by calling 1-800-567-8688 for the National Opt-Out Center for direct mailing and telemarketing. You can also register for the "No Call" list on the Missouri Attorney General's office at www.ago.state.mo.us. You can contact companies directly and ask to be taken off their mailing lists.
  
• If buying online, check to see that the website is secure before sending your personal information. (You can normally tell if it is secure by seeing a padlock in the lower corner of your screen.)
  
• Be on the lookout for scams that people often try. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
  
• Check your credit report periodically to be sure that all the information is correct. Investigate any suspicious information immediately. Once a customer proves he is an identity theft victim, credit reporting agencies have to stop reporting fraudulent account information. Consumers can also report accounts that have been affected by fraud directly to creditors.
  
• Report lost or stolen checks right away.
  
• If you receive a suspicious phone call or e-mail asking for your bank account information, notify your bank.
  
• Don't share your PIN (personal identification number) for your ATM card with others.
  
• Shred personal information, bank statements, and financial solicitations before throwing them away.
  
• If you are not receiving bills for items you normally would, contact the company to find out why.
  
• Investigate irregular or questionable items on any bill.

What do I do if I've been the victim of identity fraud?

If you have been the victim of identity fraud, do the following:

• *Contact the three main credit reporting bureaus and ask that a fraud alert be placed on your account. This will stop a lender from issuing credit to anyone with your information until you give approval.
  Close accounts that you feel might be affected. Many companies have fraud representatives with whom you can speak, or ask to speak to a manager. Put passwords on your account (not your mother's maiden name). Choose a combination of numbers and letters that would be difficult to guess.
  
• File a report with the local police department and keep a copy of the report for your records.
  
• File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (www.ftc.gov).
  
• Call the ID Theft Clearinghouse at 1-877-438-4338 (or on-line at www.consumer.gov/idtheft) and ask about the ID Theft affidavit or visit the * Missouri Attorney General's website at http://www.ago.state.mo.us