What to Do If You Lose Your Purse or Wallet

We've all heard horror stories about fraud that's committed using your name, address, SS#, credit, etc. Here's some critical information to limit the damage in case this happens to you or someone you know. As everyone always advises you to, cancel your credit cards immediately, but the key is having the toll free numbers and your card numbers handy so you know who to call. Keep those where you can find them easily (having to hunt for them is additional stress you WON'T need at that point!).

File a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where it was stolen, this proves to credit providers you were diligent, and is a first step toward an investigation

Here's what is perhaps most important: Call the three national credit reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and SS#.

The alert means any company that checks your credit knows your information was stolen and they have to contact you by phone to authorize new credit.

The numbers are:
Equifax 1-800 525-6285
Experian (formerly TRW) 1-800-301-7195
Trans Union 1-800-680-7289
Social Security Administration also has a fraud line at: 1-800-269-0271