Writer's Page

We've all heard horror stories about fraud. Unfortunately I (the author of this piece who happens to be an attorney) have firsthand knowledge, because my wallet was stolen last month. Within a week the thieve(s) ordered an
expensive monthly cell phone package, applied for a VISA credit card, had a credit line approved to buy a Gateway computer, received a PIN number from
DMV to change my driving record information online, and more.

But here's some critical information to limit the damage in case this happens to you or someone you know.

1. As everyone always advises, cancel your credit cards immediately, but the key is having the toll free numbers and your card numbers handy so you
know whom to call. Keep those where you can find them easily.

2. File a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where it was stolen. This proves to credit providers you were diligent, and is a first
step toward an investigation (if there ever is one).

3. But here's what is perhaps most important: (I never ever thought to do this) - Call the three national credit reporting organizations immediately
to place a fraud alert on your name and SS#. I had never heard of doing that until advised by a bank that called to tell me an application for
credit was made over the Internet in my name. The alert means any company that checks your credit knows your information was stolen and they have to
contact you by phone to authorize new credit. By the time I was advised to do this, almost 2 weeks after the theft, all the damage had been done.
There are records of all the credit checks initiated by the thieves' purchases, none of which I knew about before placing the alert. Since then,
no additional damage has been done, and the thieves threw my wallet away this weekend (someone turned it in). It seems to have stopped them in their
tracks.

The numbers are:

1. Equifax: 1-800-525-6285
2. Experian (formerly TRW): 1-888-397-3742
3. Trans Union: 1-800-680-7289

Social Security Administration (fraud line): 1-800-269-0271

We pass along jokes; we pass along just about everything. Do think about passing this information along. It could really help someone.