Fighting Identity Theft

Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal identifying information without your permission. This information may include your name, address, driver license number, Social Security number, mother's maiden name, birth date, or financial information such as your bank account, credit card, or PIN number.

Identity theft is one of the nation's fastest-growing, most expensive criminal enterprises. Every year more than 25,000 Texans report being victims of identity theft with thousands more unaware that their information and bank accounts have been targeted. Identity thieves use stolen information to obtain new credit cards; open checking accounts; make long distance or collect calls; or make purchases on a stolen credit card. Think it can't happen to you? Think again.

Take action! If you believe you are a victim of identity theft, follow these steps:

1. Stop Ongoing Damage
2. Report ID Theft Crime
3. Fill out ID Theft Affidavits
4. Prevent Further ID Theft Abuse
5. Monitor Your Credit Report
6. Declare That You are a Victim