Identity theft is defined as the fraudulent acquisition and use of a person’s private identifying information for financial gain. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS), 85% of identity theft incidents involved the fraudulent use of existing account information, such as credit card or bank account information.
If you are the victim of identity theft, consider the following steps to prevent further damage or victimization:
- Contact your financial institutions to alert them if your credit cards or bank accounts have been compromised.
- Contact the Wilmington Police Department to file a police report.
- Contact at least one of the three major credit reporting agencies and notify them of the incident.
Links to Credit Reporting Agencies:
- Contact the Social Security Administration if your social security number has been compromised.
There are several identity theft protection services that can provide information regarding identity theft and how to protect yourself from becoming a victim. Click the following links to be directed to identity theft resources and to read reviews of identity theft protection services.
Federal Trade Commission – Identity Theft Consumer Information
Identity Theft Protection Services – ConsumersAdvocate.org
Identity Theft Protection Services – ConsumerAffairs.com
(Note: The Wilmington Police Department does not endorse any service. This list is provided as an informational resource only).
