Despite the increasing prevalence of identity theft, it brings some comfort knowing that information about identity theft is easily accessible, and that help is readily available if ever you fall victim to this crime. Here are a number of identity theft resources you can refer to, depending on your needs.
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC) http://www.ftc.gov/idtheft
This is the first identity theft resource that everyone should know about. The FTC is one of the government departments you will need to contact in case of identity theft. The site features government reports and Congressional testimony, law enforcement updates, consumer alerts and links to other sites with helpful information.
- The Department of Justice (DOJ) http://usdoj.gov/criminal/fraud.idtheft.html
This site features pages on what identify theft is, how to prevent it and what to do if you are a victim.
- National Fraud Information Center http://www.fraud.org
They help by providing advice on telephone or email solicitations and report possible telemarketing or Internet fraud to law enforcement agencies. toll-free hotline - (800) 876-7060. - The Presidents Identity Theft Task Force www.IdTheft.gov
On May 10, 2006 The President’s Task Force on Identity Theft was established by Executive Order 13402. This Task Force is chaired by the Attorney General and co-chaired by the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission. The Federal governments goal is to create awareness,prevention,detection and prosecuttion in the areas of Identity theft. - Better Business Bureau http://www.bbbonline.org/IDtheft/
Better Business Bureau and it's information on Identity theft and prevention. You can sign-up to their latest BBB Online newsletter to learn the latest about identity theft. - Social Security Online http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/idtheft.htm
Updated information on the issues of identity Theft and misuse of Social Security Number. It has links to the FTC, SSA and to The Office of the Inspector General. Lots of useful information here.