Protect Your Identity
Checking your reports can help you combat identity fraud. You will be able to spot if someone has opened unauthorized accounts in your name or if you have been reported as delinquent for purchases you didn’t authorize. Once every 12 months, you may order your credit reports from any of the nationwide consumer reporting companies, either separately or at the same time. To obtain your free credit report, contact: Annual Credit Report Request Service P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348 or: http://www.annualcreditreport.com.
Identity theft does not discriminate. I know firsthand because I was a victim myself. I want to help you avoid the trouble and frustration of identity theft. Identity theft occurs every 2.5 seconds in the United States and impacts 1.5 million Californians every year. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the crime of identity theft is on the rise and it has become a significant problem for the residents of my district. Together we can work to ensure our personal information is safe from perpetrators.
Last year I passed the Identity Theft Resolution Act, which helps victims of identity theft restore their credit and get their finances back on track as quickly possible. This year I’ve authored a bill to help ensure that financial institutions don’t misuse your personal information. My legislation (Senate Bill 33) will also hold organizations that commit identity theft accountable and help victims get their day in court to recover damages.
If you would like more information on identity theft prevention, visit www.consumer.ftc.gov