Stop! Thief

When your purse or wallet is lost or stolen, do you know the 8 steps you need to take right away because the thief is already cashing in on your loss? Act fast, advises the Federal Trade Commission:

1. File a report with the police immediately. Get a copy in case your bank, credit card company, or insurance  company needs proof of the crime.

2. Report the loss to your bank. Cancel checking and savings accounts. Open new ones, and stop payments on outstanding checks. Cancel each credit and charge card. Get new cards with new account numbers. Get a new ATM card, account number, and PIN or password.

3. Call your utility companies. Tell them that someone may try  to get new service using your identification.

4. Report your missing driver’s license to the department of  motor vehicles.

5. Report missing cards to the major credit reporting agencies and place a fraud alert on your accounts: Equifax: 1-800-525-6285, Experian: 1-888-397-3742, TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289.

6. Change the locks on your home and car if the keys were taken.

7. Contact the Social Security Administration.    Call: 1-800-772-1213.

8. Contact your insurance companies. Make sure no one tries to add someone to your policies.