Like most places, the City of Greenville is experiencing vehicle thefts and break-ins. The Police Department is asking for your help in combating these criminals. In the United States, a vehicle is stolen every 21 seconds. Stolen cars, vans, trucks and motorcycles cost victims time and money--and increases everyone's insurance premiums. They're also often used to commit other crimes.

A lot of vehicle crime results from criminals seeing opportunities and taking them. But you can easily outsmart the car thief by following the simple advice given below. Remember most car crimes can be prevented. Don't give criminals an easy ride.

What you can do to make your car secure

KEEP YOUR VALUABLES AND POSSESSIONS SAFE

• Don’t leave anything on display in your car. Even an old coat on the back seat is a temptation for someone to ‘smash and grab’ – they steal first and think about value later. Thieves will smash a car window just to look inside a bag or box to see if they contain anything of value. Even if it contains nothing, you will be left with a broken window or door lock.
• Take all your belongings with you when you leave the car. If you can’t, lock them in the trunk, preferably before you start your journey.
• Never leave any of the following on display in your car as they are all particularly attractive to car thieves.
  • Cell Phones, GPS Receivers, Laptops, and IPods, (Basically any type of easy to sell electronics)
  • Chequebooks, Credit Cards & Debit Cards
  • Cash (Even loose change in the ashtray)
  • Vehicle Registration Documents (These should always be carried on your person)
  • Private Mail (Especially if it has your address on it)
  • Wallets and Purses (Duh, we see this often)
• Don't make the mistake of thinking because you live in a low crime neighborhood, that you can leave items in your car or leave car doors unlocked. Thieves know to cruise "nice" neighborhoods cause that's where the good stuff can be found.
• Don't leave garage door activators in your parked car. Thieves will have easy access to your garage and sometimes your entire home if the door from the garage into your home interior is unsecured.

SECURITY DEVICES ARE ALWAYS GREAT WAYS TO SECURE YOUR CAR AND PUT OFF WOULD-BE THIEVES

• Electronic immobilisers (which prevent the car from starting) are a sure way to put off car thieves.
• Mechanical immobilisers, such as steering-wheel locks, are a good alternative to electronic immobilisers.
  They are not expensive and are easy to fit yourself. Commonly called clubs, collars, or j-bars--that locks to the steering wheel, column, or brake to prevent the wheel from being turned more than a few degrees.
• Fit locking wheel nuts, as wheels are often a target for car thieves. Wheel nuts are not expensive and are easy to fit.
• An alarm can help to keep your car secure but it must be installed professionally to be effective. If you live in a high theft area or drive an automobile that's an attractive target for thieves, you may get a discount from your insurance company.
• You should purchase a locking gas cap. A locking gas cap means the thief won't be able to put gas in your stolen car - shortening his joy ride.

KEEP YOUR CAR KEYS SAFE

• When you leave your car, always remove the ignition key and lock all doors – it only takes a few Seconds for a thief to jump into your car and drive away. Follow this routine all the time, even when filling up with petrol or just popping into the shop.
• On icy mornings, never leave your vehicle unattended with the engine running to warm it up or defrost the windows.
• At home, always keep your car keys in a safe place which is out of sight and away from windows and doors.

ETCHING

• Arrange to have your car’s vehicle identification number (VIN) etched onto all glass surfaces – including the headlamps. This helps discourage professional thieves who have to either remove or replace etched parts before selling your car. Copy the VIN and your tage number on a card and keep it in a safe place. If your vehicle is stolen, the police will need this information.

SECURITY MARKING

• Consider marking all your valuables, especially those that you frequently take in your car. Mark items with your ZIPCODE or some other unique identifying number linked to a recognised database. If any of your valuables have serial numbers, keep a note of them in a safe place. This should help the police return your possessions to you if they are stolen and recovered. It also helps to convict criminals. Our crime prevention officer can give you further information about marking schemes.

DOORS AND WINDOWS

• Lock all doors and close all windows and the sunroof every time you leave your car unattended – however briefly. Many cars get broken into in the few seconds that a car is out of the driver’s sight.
• You can have special security film installed on your side windows making them difficult to break.

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS

• Always remove your in-car electronic equipment, particularly satellite navigation devices and car stereos, if you can – these are the most sought-after items in your car. With satellite navigation equipment remember also to remove any support cradle and suction pads, and wipe away any suction pad marks on the windscreen and dashboard as thieves will look out for these.
• All in-car electronic equipment – whether you can remove it or not – should be permanently marked, in a visible place, with the vehicle’s registration number or some other unique identifying number linked to a recognised database. Make a note of the equipment’s serial number and keep it in a safe place.
• Pawn shops are regularly checked for stolen goods by comparing serial numbers.
• When choosing electronic equipment, look for models with anti-theft security features.

STOLEN GOODS

• A lot of stolen items are sold on to the public. If you are offered a ‘bargain’ you could be buying something that has been stolen. Stick to reputable shops and dealers.

If you have any information about criminal activity, particularly concerning
cars stolen for spare parts or items stolen from cars and then sold to the
public, you can contact the Greenville Police Department at (864) 271-5258 or Crimestoppers at 23-CRIME (232-7463). You do not have to give out your name.

PARKING

• If you have a garage at home, use it. Always lock your car and garage. If you don’t have a garage, always try to park in a well-lit, open place. Thieves always like to steal from cars parked in places where they run the least risk of being seen. When you park your car away from home, always try to avoid places that:
  • Are unattended
  • Have easy access
  • Are concealed from public view
  • Have many escape routes
• When parking in a lot, try not to park next to trucks or other large vehicles which block the view of your car.
• When you leave your car with a parking attendant, leave just the ignition key with the attendant. Make sure no personal indentification is attached. Do the same when you take your car in for repairs.

SELLING YOUR CAR YOURSELF

• When selling your car privately, it is worth remembering that thieves can pose as potential buyers. Never let the buyer go on a test drive alone. They may not come back. Don’t leave the buyer alone with your keys in the ignition. Be careful about accepting cheques or banker’s drafts. If they are fraudulent or counterfeit you will lose the money. If in doubt, contact your bank.

WHAT ABOUT CARJACKING?

Carjacking--stealing a car by force--has captured headlines in the last few years. Statistically, your chances of being a victim of carjacking are very slim, and preventive actions can reduce the risk even more.

• Approach your car with your key in hand. Look around inside before getting in.
• When driving, keep your doors locked and your windows rolled up at all times.
• Never roll down your window to a suspicious person.
• Be especially alert at intersections, gas stations, ATMs, shopping malls convenience and grocery stores--all are windows of opportunity for carjackers.
• Park in well-lighted areas with good visibility, close to walkways, stores, and people.
• If someone attempts to force their way into your car, blow the horn.
• If the carjacker has a weapon, give up the car with no questions asked. Your life is worth more than a car.
• If you think you are being followed, do not drive home. Drive to the nearest police or fire station or any well lit store or gas station.

WHAT IF MY CAR IS STOLEN?

• If your car was just stolen call 911 immediately. Be prepared to give the 911 operator your vehicle information, the address of where it was taken from, and any information you may have on the suspects and their direction of travel. If your vehicle was taken, but you don't know when it occured, report it to the desk officer at 467-5258. You must have your vehicle information ready to give the officer. If your vehicle has any unique markings, damage, or parts (like custom wheels) this will help in locating your vehicle.
• Your vehicle will be entered into NCIC (a nation-wide stolen vehicle data base) and a BOLO (be on the lookout alert) will be immediately broadcast to all city police units.
• Anytme an officer anywhere in the U.S. does a traffic stop or comes across a suspicious, or abandoned vehicle, the vehicle tag will be ran through the national data base to determine if the vehicle is stolen. If the tag comes back "clear" but does not match the vehicle's registration on which it is displayed, the officer will check the VIN to determine if the vehicle in stolen.
• If your vehicle is recovered by law enforcement you will be contacted immediately and given the information on how to retrieve your vehicle.
• Sometimes an owner of a stolen vehicle happens to recover their own vehicle. If this occurs you must contact the agency with whom you reported the vehicle stolen so the vehicle can be removed from the NCIC data base. Failure to to do so could result in an officer performing a felony traffic stop upon seeing the vehicle being driven on the roadway and not knowing the vehicle is no longer stolen. Should this occur, it will not be a pleasant experience for whomever happens to be driving the vehicle.

WHAT IS A BREACH-OF-TRUST VEHICLE?

• If you gave your permission for someone to borrow your vehicle and they failed to return the vehicle as promised, that is known as a breach of trust. It is NOT a stolen vehicle. You can still report it to the police and we will attempt to recover the vehicle. Under no circumstances should you lead the police to believe the vehicle was stolen. Doing so not only could lead to you being charged with filing a false police report, but it could result in an innocent person being harmed since the police will use tactics neccesary for handling a felony level crime instead of a simple breach of trust situation.

 

Distraction burglary is where a bogus visitor tells lies to con their way into a home, or creates a diversion so an accomplice can sneak in. Because elderly or vulnerable people are often targeted, distraction burglary can have a devastating effect – victims can lose their confidence and peace of mind, as well as money and possessions.

Who are the offenders?

Many are professional teams of con men or women who travel the country, choosing locations with a high density of older residents or mixed communities within easy access of main or arterial roads. Surveillance information suggests tens and sometimes hundreds of miles are travelled between offences. Offenders move on following a concentrated period of offending. The constant movement also makes detection both difficult and expensive.

Who do the offenders work with?

Offenders often have a network of connections. There is a close relationship with the so-called
‘prop’ men; property repairers who trick older people into parting with large sums of money
and distraction burglars. These criminals are known to sell victims details. They may use an accomplice who has made an initial ‘cold call’ to identify properties inhabited by older and other vulnerable people.

Anecdotal information also suggests that prolific offenders respond less to rehabilitation and
often learnt their skills from their parents during childhood.

How to avoid becoming a victim of distraction burglary

The Greenville Police Department is committed to reducing distraction burglary, but police need the whole community to work together to keep out bogus visitors. By following these tips you can not only lessen your chances of becoming a victim, but also help others not to be targeted.

They’ll say anything

Bogus callers will say or do anything to gain entry to your home and because people are becoming more aware that they shouldn’t let anyone in, they are using increasingly devious tactics. Some of the lines used include:

• Playing for sympathy - “I’ve broken down, please can I use your phone?” or "I've ran out of gas, could I borrow some money or a gas can?" or “I don’t feel very well, could I use your toilet or get a glass of water?”
• Good Samaritan - “I’ve just caught someone climbing out of your window, I think they might have stolen something. We need to check your money hasn’t been taken.”
• Using children - “Hello could my son and I come in to ask you some questions for his school project?”
• Fake emergency - “There’s a gas leak/flood in your road, I have to come in to turn off your supply.”
  (Note that if there is a real gas or water emergency, police and firefighters are likely to be present).
• Leaving a note - “I’ve dropped in to see my aunty/friend who lives next door, but she’s out at the moment. Please could I borrow a pen and paper to leave a note.”

In a lot of cases the person who calls at the door will divert your attention while an accomplice sneaks into your house to search for valuables.

Taking precautions

Don't be afraid to be rude. You are not obligated to open the door for anyone you don't know. Don’t open the door to anyone before you’ve checked who it is – look out of the window or use a spy hole in your door. If you open the door, keep the chain on while you find out who is calling and what they want. If you’re not expecting someone and you don’t know them, don’t let them into your home, no matter what they say to you. If a caller is genuine they will understand your concerns. If someone claims to be from a company, such as a gas or electricity provider, always double check their identity – see the section below for tips on how to do that properly.

If someone is asking for a favour, such as to use your toilet, borrow a pen or retrieve a ball, don’t let them in. Instead direct them to a shop, office or public place. It’s only natural to want to help someone, but sadly that’s one of the techniques often used by distraction burglars. If you have any concerns about someone who has called at your door, call police immediately. If you have a chance try to note what they look like and any vehicle they have with them, so police can investigate.

Checking identification

If someone from a company calls at your door, even if you are expecting them, ask to see their identification and check it thoroughly. If you are blind or partially sighted, ask a friend or neighbour who you trust to help you if someone calls at your door.

If you were not expecting anyone, explain that you need to check they are legitimate and ask them to wait outside for a few minutes. Take a note of their name and the company they claim to be working for and then close and lock the door. Look up the phone number for the company in a telephone directory and check they have an employee of that name and that they are visiting you on legitimate business. Never just take someone’s word for it and don’t use any phone number they give you to check their identity – you don’t know if it’s a genuine number.

Helping others

Determine if you should call the police. Even if no crime has occurred, it might be worthwhile to make the police aware of any suspicious behavior. The police might be looking for a suspect that matches the person's description, and your call may save others from falling prey to a distraction burglary.

The elderly are often not aware that they are a victim – Often victims do not realise something has been taken, for hours, days or even weeks. In such cases they are more likely to question
their own judgement and memory rather than admit that they have been a victim.

Often the elderly believe that reporting the crime is futile – Feelings of great loss and powerlessness often ensue. These are compounded by emotions generated by other life events, a recent bereavement may take up all spare emotional capacity. As a result, victims often think it pointless and unnecessary to report the incident and in many cases to even mention it to friends and relatives.

Although anyone can be a victim of distraction burglary, bogus callers often prey on elderly or vulnerable people because they see them as easier targets. If you know somebody who is elderly or vulnerable who might not be aware of this advice, please do all you can to help them to protect themselves and their homes. Offer to help your neighbours to check the identification of callers.

If you have elderly friends or relatives, have a look at their home to see if there are any extra security measures that could be taken. If they don’t have a door chain or spy hole make sure they have one fitted – they can be brought from most DIY stores for less than $10.

Encourage them to use a bank account instead of keeping large amounts of cash in their home. Help them to keep their yard tidy – some burglars keep a lookout for unkempt yards because it could be a sign that someone elderly lives there.

If you are a victim of a distraction burglary

Call the police to report a distraction burglary the moment you realize valuables are missing. Often, distraction burglars strike more than once, so make the report as soon as possible.

Make neighbors aware of what happened so they can look out for similar schemes. Print up a flyer detailing the crime and describing the perpetrator. Distribute it on your block.

 

Theft of all types of copper tubing and wiring is an alarming development. Over the past two years, law enforcement agencies and utility companies have seen a dramatic rise in the theft of copper wiring, water piping and refrigeration copper tubing from homes, businesses and utility facilities. Often, the destruction does $3,000 in damages for $25 worth of scrap copper.

This rise is alarming but not unexpected; thefts of recyclable metals spike whenever scrap metal prices rise. And with the market value of copper increasing as much as 400% since 2000, the metal has become more attractive to thieves looking for an easy source of cash. Unscrupulous salvage yards readily accept copper, often paying up to 90% of market price. Thieves, (typically drug addicts looking for quick-buy money), look for copper in many forms and places:

• New wiring, piping, and other components awaiting installation, stored at construction sites.
• Wiring (even high-voltage wiring), piping, and electrical components in unsecured buildings (whether under construction, vacant, or occupied), electrical facilities, streetlamps, traffic signals, etc.
• Gutters, downspouts, lightning conductors and other roof components.
• Copper coils in air conditioners and HVAC units.
• Outdoor sculptures or decorative architectural components.

The Law Regarding Copper Theft

In response to the problem, South Carolina has passed new legistration to help deter copper theft:

SECTION 16-17-680.
Unlawful purchase or transportation of copper wire or copper pipe.

(A) It is unlawful to purchase copper wire, copper pipe, copper bars, or copper sheeting in excess of ten pounds from a person who is not a holder of a retail license or an authorized wholesaler or unless the purchaser obtains and can verify the name and address of the seller. A purchaser of copper wire, copper pipe, copper bars, or copper sheeting shall maintain a record containing the date of purchase, name and address of seller, weight or length, and size or other description of copper wire, copper pipe, copper bars, or copper sheeting purchased and amount paid for it. Records must be maintained and kept open for inspection by law enforcement officials or local and state governmental agencies during regular business hours. The records must be maintained for twelve months from the date of purchase.

(B) It is unlawful for a person to transport or have in his possession on highways of this State, in a vehicle other than a vehicle used in the ordinary course of business for the purpose of transporting copper wire, copper pipe, copper bars, or copper sheeting, an amount of copper wire, copper pipe, copper bars, or copper sheeting of an aggregate weight of more than twenty-five pounds, unless the person has in his possession:

(1) a bill of sale signed by:

(a) a holder of a retail license for a business engaged in the sale of copper wire, copper pipe, copper bars, or copper sheeting;

(b) an authorized wholesaler engaged in the sale of copper wire, copper pipe, copper bars, or copper sheeting; or (c) a registered dealer in scrap metals; or

(2) a certificate of origin signed by the sheriff, or his designated representative, of the county in which the purchase was made. The bill of sale or certificate of origin clearly must identify the material to which it applies and show the name and address of the seller, license plate of the vehicle in which the material is delivered to the purchaser, identified by license number, year, and state of issue, the name and address of the purchaser, the date of sale, and the type and amount of copper wire, copper pipe, copper bars, or copper sheeting purchased.

(C) A person who violates the provisions of this section is guilty of a:

(1) misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than two hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days for a first offense. This offense is triable in magistrate's court;

(2) misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than five hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than one year, or both, for a second offense;

(3) misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than one thousand dollars or imprisoned not more than three years, or both, for a third or subsequent offense. For an offense to be considered a third or subsequent offense, only those offenses which occurred within a period of ten years, including and immediately preceding the date of the last offense shall constitute a prior offense within the meaning of this section.

(D) For purposes of this section, the only identification acceptable is:

(1) a valid South Carolina driver's license;

(2) a South Carolina identification card issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles;

(3) a valid driver's license from another state that contains the licensee's picture on the face of the license; or

(4) a valid military identification card.

What Home Owners can do to Fight Copper Theft

• Greenville residents and businesses can assist police in thwarting these crimes by reporting any suspicious activities near light poles, buildings under construction and any air conditioning units.
• Be on the lookout for suspicious burning in the area. Thieves will typically burn the coating off of electrical wiring before attempting to sell it. Smoke from this type of fire will be dark and oily looking and is usually done inside a metal drum. If you see any suspicious activity, please call the Greenville Police Department at 271-5333.
• Work with police and neighbors to establish a neighborhood watch program.
• Shoot 'Hilti nails through the base pan of your air conditioning condensing unit into the concrete pad it sits on so that when they try to steal it they'll have to drag off the 500-pound pad as well. (Hilti makes a concrete-piercing, steel-pin-firing gun that uses a .22-caliber cartridge to attach 2-by-4-inch wall plates to new concrete.)
• Install a steel cage to cover your air conditioning unit, or locate it within a secure fence.
• Secure any access to your home's crawl space. Thieves are known to get under your home and completely strip all of the exposed wiring located there.

What Building Contractors can do

• Seek Information and Assistance
  • Consult your insurance agent or loss control consultant before your project begins, to ensure that you have adequate, appropriate insurance to protect copper during transportation, storage, and installation, and to cover business interruption costs should a theft shut down your operation temporarily.
  • Meet with local law enforcement early in the project, to familiarize them with your plans, materials, risks, and schedules, and to seek their guidance on local risks.
  • Talk with employees about theft, and show them how to secure materials and equipment to prevent theft and vandalism.
  • Get to know your neighbors, tenants, and vendors; ask them to alert police if they see suspicious activities or people on or near your site, especially after hours.
• Manage Valuable Materials Wisely
  • Arrange “just-in-time” delivery of costly commodities such as copper. When possible, avoid storing large quantities of valuable materials on site.
  • If you must purchase large quantities of copper components in order to “lock in” prices, be sure to have secure storage, either on or off site. Use sturdy, lockable buildings, storage containers, or wire cages.
  • Develop and use an effective inventory system to identify, measure, and track copper components. Mark copper materials as your property, using any of several new technologies available for this purpose. Record serial numbers of appliances and equipment that contain copper components.
• Keep Your Property Secure
  • Provide adequate exterior lighting and video surveillance cameras, especially in high-risk areas. Maintain these properly to ensure that they are always in working order.
  • Clearly define the perimeters of your property (such as with chain-link fencing), and post prominent “No Trespassing” signs. This makes it easier for police to identify, challenge, and arrest trespassers.
  • Hire security staff to monitor your property after hours. Schedule inspection rounds at irregular intervals so that thieves cannot anticipate vulnerable times.
  • Choose the best quality doors, fences, storage containers, and locks, and maintain them properly.
  • Install locking steel cages over HVAC equipment (such as air conditioning units) and other outdoor equipment that contains copper components. Install locks on exterior electrical panels.
  • Remove exterior fixed ladders, stairs, and other means of access. (Do not remove fire escapes.) Store ladders inside locked buildings.
  • Allow only authorized personnel on site. Train employees not to admit any others.

 

 

INTRODUCTION

In the course of a busy day, you may write a check at the grocery store, charge tickets to a ball game, rent a car, mail your tax returns, change service providers for your cell phone, or apply for a credit card. Chances are you don’t give these everyday transactions a second thought. But an identity thief does. Identity theft is a serious crime. People whose identities have been stolen can spend months or years – and thousands of dollars – cleaning up the mess the thieves have made of a good name and credit record. In the meantime, victims of identity theft may lose job opportunities, be refused loans for education, housing, or cars, and even get arrested for crimes they didn’t commit. Humiliation, anger, and frustration are among the feelings victims experience as they navigate the process of rescuing their identity.

Working with other government agencies and organizations, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has produced this information to help you remedy the effects of an identity theft. It describes what steps to take, your legal rights, how to handle specific problems you may encounter on the way to clearing your name, and what to watch for in the future. After reading this information, you can download this information in a PDF booklet which you can print out. The filesize of the PDF is 6.89 MB. Click here for the English version or here for the Spanish language version.

HOW IDENTITY THEFT OCCURS

I first was notified that someone had used my Social Security number for their taxes in February 2004. I also found out that this person opened a checking account, cable and utility accounts, and a cell phone account in my name. I’m still trying to clear up everything and just received my income tax refund after waiting four to five months. Trying to work and get all this cleared up is very stressful. -- From a consumer’s complaint to the FTC, July 9, 2004

Despite your best efforts to manage the flow of your personal information or to keep it to yourself, skilled identity thieves may use a variety of methods to gain access to your data.

How identity thieves get your personal information:

• They get information from businesses or other institutions by:
  • stealing records or information while they’re on the job
  • bribing an employee who has access to these records
  • hacking these records
  • conning information out of employees
    
    
• They may steal your mail, including bank and credit card statements, credit card offers, new checks, and tax information.
  
  
• They may rummage through your trash, the trash of businesses, or public trash dumps in a practice known as “dumpster diving.”
  
  
• They may get your credit reports by abusing their employer’s authorized access to them, or by posing as a landlord, employer, or someone else who may have a legal right to access your report.
  
  
• They may steal your credit or debit card numbers by capturing the information in a data storage device in a practice known as “skimming.” They may swipe your card for an actual purchase, or attach the device to an ATM machine where you may enter or swipe your card.
  
  
• They may steal your wallet or purse.
  
  
• They may steal personal information they find in your home.
  
  
• They may steal personal information from you through email or phone by posing as legitimate companies and claiming that you have a problem with your account. This practice is known as “phishing” online, or “pretexting” by phone.

How identity thieves use your personal information:

• They may call your credit card issuer to change the billing address on your credit card account. The imposter then runs up charges on your account. Because your bills are being sent to a different address, it may be some time before you realize there’s a problem.
  
  
• They may open new credit card accounts in your name. When they use the credit cards and don’t pay the bills, the delinquent accounts are reported on your credit report.
  
  
• They may establish phone or wireless service in your name.
  
  
• They may open a bank account in your name and write bad checks on that account.
  
  
• They may counterfeit checks or credit or debit cards, or authorize electronic transfers in your name, and drain your bank account.
  
  
• They may file for bankruptcy under your name to avoid paying debts they’ve incurred under your name, or to avoid eviction.
  
  
• They may buy a car by taking out an auto loan in your name.
  
  
• They may get identification such as a driver’s license issued with their picture, in your name.
  
  
• They may get a job or file fraudulent tax returns in your name.
  
  
• They may give your name to the police during an arrest. If they don’t show up for their court date, a warrant for arrest is issued in your name.
  

If Your Personal Information Has Been Lost or Stolen:

If you’ve lost personal information or identification, or if it has been stolen from you, taking certain steps quickly can minimize the potential for identity theft.

• Financial accounts: Close accounts, like credit cards and bank accounts, immediately. When you open new accounts, place passwords on them. Avoid using your mother’s maiden name, your birth date, the last four digits of your Social Security number (SSN) or your phone number, or a series of consecutive numbers.
  
  
• Social Security number: Call the toll-free fraud number of any of the three nationwide consumer reporting companies and place an initial fraud alert on your credit reports. An alert can help stop someone from opening new credit accounts in your name. For consumer reporting company contact information, and more information about fraud alerts continue reading.
  
  
• Driver’s license/other government-issued identification: Contact the agency that issued the license or other identification document. Follow its procedures to cancel the document and to get a replacement. Ask the agency to flag your file so that no one else can get a license or any other identification document from them in your name.

Once you’ve taken these precautions, watch for signs that your information is being misused. See Staying Alert, below.

If your information has been misused, file a report about the theft with the police, and file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission, as well. If another crime was committed – for example, if your purse or wallet was stolen or your house or car was broken into – report it to the police immediately.

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IDENTITY THEFT VICTIMS: IMMEDIATE STEPS

If you are a victim of identity theft, take the following four steps as soon as possible, and keep a record with the details of your conversations and copies of all correspondence.

1. Place a fraud alert on your credit reports, and review your credit reports.

Fraud alerts can help prevent an identity thief from opening any more accounts in your name. Contact the toll-free fraud number of any of the three consumer reporting companies below to place a fraud alert on your credit report. You only need to contact one of the three companies to place an alert. The company you call is required to contact the other two, which will place an alert on their versions of your report, too.

• Equifax: 1-800-525-6285; www.equifax.com; P.O. Box 740241, Atlanta, GA 30374-0241
  
  
• Experian: 1-888-EXPERIAN (1-888-397-3742); www.experian.com; P.O. Box 9532, Allen, TX 75013
  
  
• TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289; www.transunion.com; Fraud Victim Assistance Division,
  P.O. Box 6790, Fullerton, CA 92834-6790
  

Once you place the fraud alert in your file, you’re entitled to order free copies of your credit reports, and, if you ask, only the last four digits of your SSN will appear on your credit reports. Once you get your credit reports, review them carefully. Look for inquiries from companies you haven’t contacted, accounts you didn’t open, and debts on your accounts that you can’t explain. Check that information like your SSN, address(es), name or initials, and employers are correct. If you find fraudulent or inaccurate information, get it removed. See Correcting Credit Reports, page 17 to learn how. Continue to check your credit reports periodically, especially for the first year after you discover the identity theft, to make sure no new fraudulent activity has occurred.

Fraud Alerts
There are two types of fraud alerts: an initial alert, and an extended alert.

• An initial alert stays on your credit report for at least 90 days. You may ask that an initial fraud alert be placed on your credit report if you suspect you have been, or are about to be, a victim of identity theft. An initial alert is appropriate if your wallet has been stolen or if you’ve been taken in by a “phishing” scam. When you place an initial fraud alert on your credit report, you’re entitled to one free credit report from each of the three nationwide consumer reporting companies.
  
  
• An extended alert stays on your credit report for seven years. You can have an extended alert placed on your credit report if you’ve been a victim of identity theft and you provide the consumer reporting company with an “identity theft report” (see page 9). When you place an extended alert on your credit report, you’re entitled to two free credit reports within 12 months from each of the three nationwide consumer reporting companies. In addition, the consumer reporting companies will remove your name from marketing lists for pre-screened credit offers for five years – unless you ask them to put your name back on the list before then.
  

To place either of these alerts on your credit report, you will be required to provide appropriate proof of your identity, which may include your SSN, name, address and other personal information requested by the consumer reporting company. To remove the fraud alert, you will need a copy of an identity theft report and proof of your identity.

When a business sees the alert on your credit report, they must verify your identity before issuing you credit. As part of this verification process, the business may try to contact you directly. This may cause some delays if you’re trying to obtain credit. To compensate for possible delays, you may wish to include a cell phone number, where you can be reached easily, in your alert. Remember to keep all contact information in your alert current.

2. Close the accounts that you know, or 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. It’s important to notify credit card companies and banks in writing. Send your letters by certified mail, return receipt requested, so
you can document what the company received and when. Keep a file of your correspondence and enclosures.

When you open new accounts, use new Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) and passwords. Avoid using easily available information like your mother’s maiden name, your birth date, the last four digits of your SSN or your phone number, or a series of consecutive numbers.

If the identity thief has made charges or debits on your accounts, or on fraudulently opened accounts, ask the company for the forms to dispute those transactions:

• For charges and debits on existing accounts, ask the representative to send you the company’s fraud dispute forms. If the company doesn’t have special forms, use the sample letter provided here to dispute the fraudulent charges or debits. In either case, write to the company at the address given for
  “billing inquiries,” NOT the address for sending your payments.
• For new unauthorized accounts, ask if the company accepts the ID Theft Affidavit. If not, ask the representative to send you the company’s fraud dispute forms.
  

If the company already has reported these accounts or debts on your credit report, dispute this fraudulent information. See Correcting Credit Reports to learn how.

Once you have resolved your identity theft dispute with the company, ask for a letter stating that the company has closed the disputed accounts and has discharged the fraudulent debts. This letter is your best proof if errors relating to this account reappear on your credit report or you are contacted
again about the fraudulent debt.

Proving You’re a Victim
Applications or other transaction records related to the theft of your identity may help you prove that you are a victim. For example, you may be able to show that the signature on an application is not yours. These documents also may contain information about the identity thief that is valuable to law enforcement. By law, companies must give you a copy of the application or other business transaction records relating to your identity theft if you submit your request in writing. Be sure to ask the company
representative where you should mail your request. Companies must provide these records at no charge to you within 30 days of receipt of your request and your supporting documents. You also may give permission to any law enforcement agency to get these records, or ask in your written request that a copy of these records be sent to a particular law enforcement officer.

The company can ask you for:

• proof of your identity. This may be a photocopy of a government-issued ID card, the same type of information the identity thief used to open or access the account, or the type of information the company usually requests from applicants or customers, and
  
  
• a police report and a completed affidavit, which may be the Identity Theft Affidavit
  (see page 37) or the company’s own affidavit.

3. File a report with your local police or the police in the community where the identity theft took place.

Then, get a copy of the police report or at the very least, the number of the report. It can help you deal with creditors who need proof of the crime. If the police are reluctant to take your report, ask to file a “Miscellaneous Incidents” report, or try another jurisdiction, like your state police. You also can check with your state Attorney General’s office to find out if state law requires the police to take reports for identity theft. Check the Blue Pages of your telephone directory for the phone number or check www.naag.org for a list of state Attorneys General.

4. File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission and the
South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs

By sharing your identity theft complaint with the FTC, you will provide important information that can help law enforcement officials across the nation track down identity thieves and stop them. The FTC can refer victims’ complaints to other government agencies and companies for further action, as well as investigate companies for violations of laws the agency enforces.

You can file a complaint online at www.consumer.gov/idtheft. If you don’t have Internet access, call the FTC’s Identity Theft Hotline, toll-free: 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338); TTY: 1-866-653-4261; or write: Identity Theft Clearinghouse, Federal Trade Commission, 600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW,
Washington, DC 20580.

The South Carolina Consumer Protection Code gives the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs' Administrator broad powers and responsibilities to accept all types of complaints dealing with any consumer transaction arising out of the production, promotion or sale of consumer goods and services. The Division of Consumer Services is responsible for processing and evaluating consumer complaints received by the Department.

You can file your complaint online with the SCDCA at www.scconsumer.gov/complaint_services.htm or, if you don't have internet access, call (803) 734-4200 or (800) 922-1594 (toll free in S.C.)
Teletips (803) 734-4215 or (877) 734-4215 (toll free in S.C.); or write: South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs, 3600 Forest Drive, 3rd Floor, P.O. Box 5757 Columbia, SC 29250

Be sure to call the Hotlines to update your complaint if you have any additional information or problems.

Note;
The SCDCA maintains a BUYER BEWARE LIST to inform the public of ALL businesses or individuals who have not responded to written complaints or who have failed to provide resolutions as promised. The list contains the name and address of the business for both in and out-of-state business. You can view the list online at www.scconsumer.gov/buyer_beware.htm

The Identity Theft Report
An identity theft report may have two parts:

Part One is a copy of a report filed with a local, state, or federal law enforcement agency, like your local police department, your State Attorney General, the FBI, the U.S. Secret Service, the FTC, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. There is no federal law requiring a federal agency to take a report about identity theft; however, some state laws require local police departments to take reports. When you file a report, provide as much information as you can about the crime, including anything you know about the dates of the identity theft, the fraudulent accounts opened, and the alleged identity thief.

Note: Knowingly submitting false information could subject you to criminal prosecution for perjury.

Part Two of an identity theft report depends on the policies of the consumer reporting company and the information provider (the business that sent the information to the consumer reporting company). That is, they may ask you to provide information or documentation in addition to that included in the law enforcement report which is reasonably intended to verify your identity theft. They must make their request within 15 days of receiving your law enforcement report, or, if you already obtained an extended fraud alert on your credit report, the date you submit your request to the credit reporting company for information blocking. The consumer reporting company and information provider then have 15 more days to work with you to make sure your identity theft report contains everything they need. They are entitled to take five days to review any information you give them. For example, if you give them information 11 days after they request it, they do not have to make a final decision
until 16 days after they asked you for that information. If you give them any information after the 15-day deadline, they can reject your identity theft report as incomplete; you will have to resubmit your identity theft report with the correct information.

You may find that most federal and state agencies, and some local police departments, offer only “automated” reports – a report that does not require a face-to-face meeting with a law enforcement officer. Automated reports may be submitted online, or by telephone or mail. If you have a choice, do not use an automated report. The reason? It’s more difficult for the consumer reporting company or information provider to verify the information. Unless you are asking a consumer reporting company to place an extended fraud alert on your credit report, you probably will have to provide additional
information or documentation when you use an automated report.

Tips For Organizing Your Case
Accurate and complete records will help you to resolve your identity theft case more quickly.

• Have a plan when you contact a company. Don’t assume that the person you talk to will give you all the information or help you need. Prepare a list of questions to ask the representative, as well as information about your identity theft. Don’t end the call until you’re sure you understand everything you’ve been told. If you need more help, ask to speak to a supervisor.
• Write down the name of everyone you talk to, what he or she tells you, and the date the conversation occurred. Use Chart Your Course of Action on page 11 to help you.
• Follow up in writing with all contacts you’ve made on the phone or in person. Use certified mail, return receipt requested, so you can document what the company or organization received and when.
• Keep copies of all correspondence or forms you send.
• Keep the originals of supporting documents, like police reports and letters to and from creditors; send copies only.
• Set up a filing system for easy access to your paperwork.
• Keep old files even if you believe your case is closed. Once resolved, most cases stay resolved, but problems can crop up.

Note: The PDF Booklet has a Chart which you can print out to assist you in organizing your case.

---

RESOLVING SPECIFIC PROBLEMS

While dealing with problems resulting from identity theft can be time-consuming and frustrating, most victims can resolve their cases by being assertive, organized, and knowledgeable about their legal rights. Some laws require you to notify companies within specific time periods. Don’t delay in contacting any companies to deal with these problems, and ask for supervisors if you need more help
than you’re getting.

BANK ACCOUNTS AND FRAUDULENT WITHDRAWALS
Different laws determine your legal remedies based on the type of bank fraud you have suffered. For example, state laws protect you against fraud committed by a thief using paper documents, like stolen or counterfeit checks. But if the thief used an electronic fund transfer, federal law applies. Many transactions may seem to be processed electronically but are still considered “paper” transactions. If you’re not sure what type of transaction the thief used to commit the fraud, ask the financial institution that processed the transaction.

Fraudulent Electronic Withdrawals
The Electronic Fund Transfer Act provides consumer protections for transactions involving an ATM or debit card, or another electronic way to debit or credit an account. It also limits your liability for unauthorized electronic fund transfers. You have 60 days from the date your bank account statement is sent to you to report in writing any money withdrawn from your account without your permission. This includes instances when your ATM or debit card is “skimmed” – that is, when a thief captures your account number and PIN without your card having been lost or stolen. If your ATM or debit card is lost or stolen, report it immediately because the amount you can be held responsible for depends on how quickly you report the loss.

• If you report the loss or theft within two business days of discovery, your losses are limited to $50.
• If you report the loss or theft after two business days, but within 60 days after the unauthorized electronic fund transfer appears on your statement, you could lose up to $500 of what the thief withdraws.
• If you wait more than 60 days to report the loss or theft, you could lose all the money that was taken from your account after the end of the 60 days.

Note: Most card issuers voluntarily have agreed to limit or waive consumers’ liability for unauthorized use of their debit cards, no matter how much time has elapsed since the discovery of the loss or theft of the card. Contact your card issuer for more information.

The best way to protect yourself in the event of an error or fraudulent transaction is to call the financial institution and follow up in writing – by certified letter, return receipt requested – so you can prove when the institution received your letter. Keep a copy of the letter you send for your records.
After receiving your notification about an error on your statement, the institution generally has 10 business days to investigate. The institution must tell you the results of its investigation within three business days after completing it and must correct an error within one business day after determining that it occurred. If the institution needs more time, it may take up to 45 days to complete the
investigation – but only if the money in dispute is returned to your account and you are notified promptly of the credit. At the end of the investigation, if no error has been found, the institution may take the money back if it sends you a written explanation. For more information, see Electronic
Banking and Credit, ATM and Debit Cards: What To Do If They’re Lost or Stolen at www.consumer.gov/idtheft.

Fraudulent Checks and Other “Paper” Transactions
In general, if an identity thief steals your checks or counterfeits checks from your existing bank account, stop payment, close the account, and ask your bank to notify Chex Systems, Inc., (contact information on page 15) or the check verification service with which it does business. That way, retailers can be notified not to accept these checks. While no federal law limits your losses if someone uses your checks with a forged signature, or uses another type of “paper” transaction such as a demand draft, state laws may protect you. Most states hold the bank responsible for losses from such transactions. At the same time, most states require you to take reasonable care of your account. For
example, you may be held responsible for the forgery if you fail to notify the bank in a timely manner that a check was lost or stolen. Contact your state banking or consumer protection agency for more information. You can contact major check verification companies directly for the following services:

• To request that they notify retailers who use their databases not to accept your checks, call:
  • TeleCheck at 1-800-710-9898 or 1-800-927-0188
  • Certegy, Inc. (previously Equifax Check Systems) at 1-800-437-5120
    
    
• To find out if the identity thief has been passing bad checks in your name, call:
  • SCAN: 1-800-262-7771

If your checks are rejected by a merchant, it may be because an identity thief is using the Magnetic Information Character Recognition (MICR) code (the numbers at the bottom of checks), your driver’s license number, or another identification number. The merchant who rejects your check should give you its check verification company contact information so you can find out what information the thief is using. If you find that the thief is using your MICR code, ask your bank to close your checking account, and open a new one. If you discover that the thief is using your driver’s license number or some other identification number, work with your DMV or other identification issuing agency to get new identification with new numbers. Once you have taken the appropriate steps, your checks should be accepted.

Note:

• The check verification company may or may not remove the information about the MICR code or the driver’s license/identification number from its database because this information may help prevent the thief from continuing to commit fraud.
• If the checks are being passed on a new account, contact the bank to close the account. Also contact Chex Systems, Inc., to review your consumer report to make sure that no other bank accounts have been opened in your name.
• Dispute any bad checks passed in your name with merchants so they don’t start any collections actions against you.

Fraudulent New Accounts
If you have trouble opening a new checking account, it may be because an identity thief has been opening accounts in your name. Chex Systems, Inc., produces consumer reports specifically about checking accounts, and as a consumer reporting company, is subject to the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
You can request a free copy of your consumer report by contacting Chex Systems, Inc. If you find inaccurate information on your consumer report, follow the procedures under Correcting Credit Reports (see page 17) to dispute it. Contact each of the banks where account inquiries were made, too. This will help ensure that any fraudulently opened accounts are closed.

Chex Systems, Inc.: 1-800-428-9623; www.chexhelp.com
Fax: 602-659-2197
Chex Systems, Inc.
Attn: Consumer Relations
7805 Hudson Road, Suite 100
Woodbury, MN 55125

Where to Find Help
If you have trouble getting a financial institution to help you resolve your banking-related identity theft problems, including problems with bank-issued credit cards, contact the agency that oversees your bank (see list below). If you’re not sure which of these agencies is the right one, call your bank or visit the National Information Center of the Federal Reserve System at www.ffiec.gov/nic/ and click on “Institution Search.”

Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) – www.fdic.gov
The FDIC supervises state-chartered banks that are not members of the Federal Reserve System, and insures deposits at banks and savings and loans. Call the FDIC Consumer Call Center toll-free: 1-800-934-3342; or write: Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, Division of Compliance and Consumer Affairs, 550 17th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20429.

FDIC publications:

• Classic Cons... And How to Counter Them
  www.fdic.gov/consumers/consumer/news/cnsprg98/cons.html
• A Crook Has Drained Your Account. Who Pays?
  www.fdic.gov/consumers/consumer/news/cnsprg98/crook.html
• Your Wallet: A Loser’s Manual
  www.fdic.gov/consumers/consumer/news/cnfall97/wallet.html

Federal Reserve System (Fed) – www.federalreserve.gov
The Fed supervises state-chartered banks that are members of the Federal Reserve System.
Call: 202-452-3693; or write: Division of Consumer and Community Affairs, Mail Stop 801, Federal Reserve Board, Washington, DC 20551; or contact the Federal Reserve Bank in your area. The Reserve Banks are located in Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Cleveland, Richmond, Atlanta, Chicago, St. Louis, Minneapolis, Kansas City, Dallas, and San Francisco.

National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) – www.ncua.gov
The NCUA charters and supervises federal credit unions and insures deposits at federal credit unions and many state credit unions. Call: 703-518-6360; or write: Compliance Officer, National Credit Union
Administration, 1775 Duke Street, Alexandria, VA 22314.

Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OC) – www.occ.treas.gov
The OCC charters and supervises national banks. If the word “national” appears in the name of a bank, or the initials “N.A.” follow its name, the OCC oversees its operations. Call toll-free: 1-800-613-6743 (business days 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. CST); fax: 713-336-4301; or write: Customer Assistance Group, 1301 McKinney Street, Suite 3710, Houston, TX 77010.

OC publications:

• Check Fraud: A Guide to Avoiding Losses
  www.occ.treas.gov/chckfrd/chckfrd.pdf
• How to Avoid Becoming a Victim of Identity Theft
  www.occ.treas.gov/idtheft.pdf
• Identity Theft and Pretext Calling Advisory Letter 2001-4
  www.occ.treas.gov/ftp/advisory/2001-4.doc

Office of Thrift Supervision (OTS) – www.ots.treas.gov
The OTS is the primary regulator of all federal, and many state-chartered, thrift institutions, including savings banks and savings and loan institutions. Call: 202-906-6000; or write: Office of Thrift Supervision, 1700 G Street, NW, Washington, DC 20552.

Bankruptcy Fraud
U. S. Trustee (UST) – www.usdoj.gov/ust
If you believe someone has filed for bankruptcy in your name, write to the U.S. Trustee in the region where the bankruptcy was filed. A list of the U.S. Trustee Programs’ Regional Offices is available on the UST website, or check the Blue Pages of your phone book under U.S. Government Bankruptcy Administration.

In your letter, describe the situation and provide proof of your identity. The U.S. Trustee will make a criminal referral to law enforcement authorities if you provide appropriate documentation to substantiate your claim. You also may want to file a complaint with the U.S. Attorney and/or the FBI in the city where the bankruptcy was filed. The U.S. Trustee does not provide legal representation, legal advice, or referrals to lawyers. That means you may need to hire an attorney to help convince the bankruptcy court that the filing is fraudulent. When you or your attorney ask the bankruptcy court to dismiss the fraudulently filed bankruptcy case, you also should request that the bankruptcy court include in its order of dismissal facts that will help you repair your credit, including a statement that you did not file this bankruptcy case and that the case was filed by an imposter as the result of identity theft.

Ask the bankruptcy court to send a copy of the dismissal order to each consumer reporting company; if the court will not do so, you should send the order to the consumer reporting companies yourself. Some courts will even provide you with several official copies of the order at no charge so that you can send them to creditors or use them in case of future problems. The U.S. Trustee does not provide consumers with copies of court documents. You can get them from the bankruptcy clerk’s office for a fee.

Correcting Fraudulent Information in Credit Reports
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) establishes procedures for correcting fraudulent information on your credit report and requires that your report be made available only for certain legitimate business needs. Under the FCRA, both the consumer reporting company and the information provider (the business that sent the information to the consumer reporting company), such as a bank or credit card company, are responsible for correcting fraudulent information in your report. To protect your rights under the law, contact both the consumer reporting company and the information provider.

Consumer Reporting Company Obligations
Consumer reporting companies will block fraudulent information from appearing on your credit report if you take the following steps: Send them a copy of an identity theft report and a letter telling them what information is fraudulent. The letter also should state that the information does not relate to any transaction that you made or authorized. In addition, provide proof of your identity that may include your SSN, name, address, and other personal information requested by the consumer reporting company.

The consumer reporting company has four business days to block the fraudulent information after accepting your identity theft report. It also must tell the information provider that it has blocked the information. The consumer reporting company may refuse to block the information or remove the block if, for example, you have not told the truth about your identity theft. If the consumer reporting company removes the block or refuses to place the block, it must let you know.

The blocking process is only one way for identity theft victims to deal with fraudulent information. There’s also the “reinvestigation process,” which was designed to help all consumers dispute errors or inaccuracies on their credit reports. For more information on this process, see How to Dispute Credit Report Errors and Your Access to Free Credit Reports, two publications from the FTC at www.consumer.gov/idtheft.

Sample Blocking Letter

Date
Your Name
Your Address
Your City, State, Zip Code

Complaint Department
Name of Consumer Reporting Company
Address
City, State, Zip Code

Dear Sir or Madam:
I am a victim of identity theft. I am writing to request that you block the
following fraudulent information in my file. This information does not
relate to any transaction that I have made. The items also are circled on
the attached copy of the report I received. (Identify item(s) to be blocked
by name of source, such as creditors or tax court, and identify type of item,
such as credit account, judgment, etc.)

Enclosed is a copy of the law enforcement report regarding my identity
theft. Please let me know if you need any other information from me to
block this information on my credit report.
Sincerely,

Your name

Enclosures: (List what you are enclosing.)

Information Provider Obligations
Information providers stop reporting fraudulent information to the consumer reporting companies once you send them an identity theft report and a letter explaining that the information they’re reporting resulted from identity theft. But you must send your identity theft report and letter to the address specified by the information provider. Note that the information provider may continue to report the information if it later learns that the information does not result from identity theft.

If a consumer reporting company tells an information provider that it has blocked fraudulent information in your credit report, the information provider may not continue to report that information to the consumer reporting company. The information provider also may not hire someone to collect the debt that relates to the fraudulent account, or sell that debt to anyone else who would
try to collect it.

Credit Cards
The Fair Credit Billing Act establishes procedures for resolving billing errors on your credit card accounts, including fraudulent charges on your accounts. The law also limits your liability for unauthorized credit card charges to $50 per card. To take advantage of the law’s consumer protections, you must:

• write to the creditor at the address given for “billing inquiries,” NOT the address for sending your payments. Include your name, address, account number, and a description of the billing error, including the amount and
  date of the error. A sample dispute letter is located below.
  
  
• send your letter so that it reaches the creditor within 60 days after the first bill containing the error was mailed to you. If an identity thief changed the address on your account and you didn’t receive the bill, your dispute letter still must reach the creditor within 60 days of when the creditor would have mailed the bill. This is one reason it’s essential to keep track of your billing statements, and follow up quickly if your bills don’t arrive on time.
  
  You should send your letter by certified mail, and request a return receipt. It becomes your proof of the date the creditor received the letter. Include copies (NOT originals) of your police report or other documents that support your position. Keep a copy of your dispute letter. The creditor must acknowledge your complaint in writing within 30 days after receiving it, unless the problem has been resolved. The creditor must resolve the dispute within two billing cycles (but not more than 90 days) after receiving your letter.
  
  For more information, see Fair Credit Billing and Avoiding Credit and Charge Card Fraud, two publications from the FTC at www.consumer.gov/idtheft.

Sample Dispute Letter - For Existing Accounts

Date
Your Name
Your Address
Your City, State, Zip Code
Your Account Number

Name of Creditor
Billing Inquiries
Address
City, State, Zip Code

Dear Sir or Madam:
I am writing to dispute a fraudulent (charge or debit) on my account in the amount of $______. I am a victim of identity theft, and I did not make this (charge or debit). I am requesting that the (charge be removed or the debit reinstated), that any finance and other charges related to the fraudulent amount be credited, as well, and that I receive an accurate statement.

Enclosed are copies of (use this sentence to describe any enclosed information, such as a police report) supporting my position. Please investigate this matter and correct the fraudulent (charge or debit) as soon as possible.
Sincerely,

Your name

Enclosures: (List what you are enclosing.)

Criminal Violations
Procedures to correct your record within criminal justice databases can vary from state to state, and even from county to county. Some states have enacted laws with special procedures for identity theft victims to follow to clear their names. You should check with the office of your state Attorney General, but you can use the following information as a general guide.

If wrongful criminal violations are attributed to your name, contact the police or sheriff’s department that originally arrested the person using your identity, or the court agency that issued the warrant for the arrest. File an impersonation report with the police/sheriff’s department or the court, and confirm your identity: Ask the police department to take a full set of your fingerprints,photograph you, and make a copies of your photo identification documents, like your driver’s license, passport, or travel visa. To establish your innocence, ask the police to compare the prints and photographs with those of the imposter.

If the arrest warrant is from a state or county other than where you live, ask your local police department to send the impersonation report to the police department in the jurisdiction where the arrest warrant, traffic citation, or criminal conviction originated.

The law enforcement agency should then recall any warrants and issue a “clearance letter” or “certificate of release” (if you were arrested/booked). You’ll need to keep this document with you at all times in case you’re wrongly arrested again. Ask the law enforcement agency to file the record of the follow-up investigation establishing your innocence with the district attorney’s (D.A.) office and/or court where the crime took place. This will result in an amended complaint. Once your name is recorded in a criminal database, it’s unlikely that it will be completely removed from the official record. Ask that the “key name” or “primary name” be changed from your name to the imposter’s name (or to “John Doe” if the imposter’s true identity is not known), with your name noted as an alias.

You’ll also want to clear your name in the court records. To do so, you’ll need to determine which state law(s) will help you with this and how. If your state has no formal procedure for clearing your record, contact the D.A.’s office in the county where the case was originally prosecuted. Ask the D.A.’s office for the appropriate court records needed to clear your name. You may need to hire a criminal defense attorney to help you clear your name. Contact Legal Services in your state or your local bar association for help in finding an attorney.

Finally, contact your state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to find out if your driver’s license is being used by the identity thief. Ask that your files be flagged for possible fraud.

Debt Collectors
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act prohibits debt collectors from using unfair or deceptive practices to collect overdue bills that a creditor has forwarded for collection, even if those bills don’t result from identity theft. You can stop a debt collector from contacting you in two ways:

• Write a letter to the collection agency telling them to stop. Once the debt collector receives your letter, the company may not contact you again – with two exceptions: They can tell you there will be no further contact, and they can tell you that the debt collector or the creditor intends to take some specific action.
  
  
• Send a letter to the collection agency, within 30 days after you received written notice of the debt, telling them that you do not owe the