The news of a Home Depot Security Breach attack has me thinking I need to share the following information with you in case you find yourself in the position where you are the victim of identity theft.

1. PLACE A ‘FRAUD ALERT

Fraud alerts can help prevent an identity thief from opening any more accounts in your name.

2. CLOSE ANY ACCOUNTS THAT YOU BELIEVE HAVE BEEN TAMPERED WITH OR OPENED FRAUDULENTLY

Call and speak with someone in the security or fraud department of each company. Follow up in writing, and include copies (NOT originals) of supporting documents.

3. FILE A COMPLAINT WITH THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION.

You can do this on their website or by calling the FTC’s Identity Theft Hotline.

4. FILE A REPORT WITH YOUR LOCAL POLICE.

Call and ask them if you need to file the report in person or if you can do it over the phone or on the internet.

When you file your report, bring or attach a copy of your FTC ID Theft Complaint form and any supporting documentation. Ask the officer to attach or incorporate the ID Theft Complaint into their police report.

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