Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in the United States. Many people spend months or even years trying to recover from identity theft. Read the following information and don't let this happen to you.

Common Terms:

• Counterfeiting - creating fake checks or currency and altering valid checks
• Forgery - the false making or material alteration of a written instrument for the purpose of deceit and fraud

To avoid becoming a victim:

• Protect your Social Security Number
• Shred personal financial documents and unsolicited mailed credit card offers
• Check your credit report annually for inaccuracies
• Ask why your personal financial information is requested
• Know who you're disclosing your personal financial information to (ask for a call back number if you don't know the company/representative)

If you've been a victim of identity theft:

• Check your credit report for unusual activity
• File a report with your local police department
• Contact the creditors where fraudulent activity accounts were opened in your name
• Monitor your financial statements for further discrepancies
• Report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-428-4338

Credit Bureaus:

• Experian:
  1-888-397-3742
  Visit website››
     
• Equifax:
  1-800-685-1111
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• TransUnion:
  1-800-888-4213
  Visit website››

Learn more about identity theft visit the Federal Trade Commissions website to learn more about identity theft. Protect yourself from identity theft and fraud!