Do not give any personal information (birthdate, social security, bank account number, etc) in response to an email or phone call. If you suspect you have been a victim of identity theft, call your local police, credit card companies, banks, investment companies, licensing agencies and Social Security Admin. You can also call the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-438-4338. Take careful notes and record the names and phone numbers of each person you talk to.
For information on what to do in New Jersey, call Consumer Affairs or go to http://www.nj.gov/lps/ca/idtheft.htm. This website lists phone numbers for the three major credit reporting companies as well as a list of steps to take if you believe you are a victim of identity theft.
Other sources of help:
Key resource for consumer safety. Health care profiles on the state's medical doctors, optometrists and podiatrists, as well as other consumer information and assistance.
You can opt out of pre-approved credit card offers by calling OPT OUT or visiting their website:
A website with a weekly newsletter about current scams making the rounds.
Some of the current listings include
If it sounds too good to be true, it is!
Web site: www.scambusters.org/
Check out rumors and stories on the internet to see if they are true. Check especially the section on fraud: