What to do in case of ID theft..

Here's some critical information to limit the damage and liability in case this happens to you or someone you know. As everyone always advises, cancel your credit cards immediately, but the key is having the toll free numbers and your card numbers handy so you know whom to call.

Place the contents of your wallet on a photocopy machine, do both sides of each license, credit card, etc., you will know what you had in your wallet and all of the account numbers and phone numbers to call and cancel. Keep the photocopy in a safe place.

File a police report and get a copy immediately in the jurisdiction where it was lost or stolen. This proves to credit providers you were diligent, and is a first step toward an investigation (if there ever is one).

File a complaint with the FTC identity theft hotline at (877) 438-4338.

Notify the fraud units of the three major credit bureaus - Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union. Have a "fraud alert" and "victim's statement" placed in the credit file asking the creditors contact you before opening any new accounts in your name. The numbers are:

Equifax: 1-800-525-6285

Experian (formerly TRW): 1-888-397-3742

Trans Union: 1-800-680-7289

Contact all creditors and your banker by telephone and follow up in writing to inform them of the problem. Request new personal Identification Numbers (PIN's) and passwords. Close all compromised accounts through the creditors' fraud department.

Ask that accounts closed because of fraud be tagged "closed at consumer's request" to help protect your credit rating.

To report a stolen Social Security number call the following: Social Security Administration (fraud hot line): 1-800-269-0271.