ID Theft Faceoff

1. If the stolen information includes your SSN (Social Security Number), you can place an "initial fraud alert" by calling one of the three nationwide consumer reporting companies.
2. If someone has stolen information about your financial accounts, it's best to wait for several weeks to see what they do with it before taking any action.
3. The names of the three nationwide consumer reporting companies are Equinox, ExperiCorps, and TransAmerica.
4. One of the best ways to protect your identity is by using online passwords only you would know - like your mother's maiden name or the last four digits of your SSN (Social Security Number).
5. The best way to get a free copy of your credit report is to file a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Request.
6. If someone has stolen your identity, and then you notice that you're no longer receiving bills from creditors, this is a sign that your identity has been restored.