Identity Theft Protection

Procedures
If you have been a victim of Identity Theft or have had your wallet / purse stolen with valuable information (such as social security cards, driver's license, credit / debit Cards, etc.) the following procedures should be followed:
  • Contact the Department of Public Safety / Department of Motor Vehicles in the state where your license was issued
    • In Texas, the phone number is 512-424-2600
  • Contact the Federal Trade Commission at 877-438-4338 to inquire if someone has applied for credit in your name, or visit CreditScore.net
  • Contact the Social Security Administration at 800-269-0271
  • Contact your local Police Department and file a report
  • Make sure to get a copy of your police report and/or the case number
  • Notify all creditors and merchants of your stolen credit cards
  • Notify the U.S. Passport Agency at 202-647-0518
  • Notify your banks / credit unions
ID Theft - Protect Yourself

Tips for Protecting Your Identity

  • Check credit history and bank records frequently
  • Ensure all carbon copies from credit cards are destroyed
  • Minimize the number of credit/debit cards that you carry in the event your wallet or purse is stolen
  • Never give information over the telephone or internet unless you initiated the conversation or you know who you’re dealing with
  • Remove extra information from your checks (make the clerk or cashier ask for identification when your checks are used)
  • Shred all trash that has identifiers and account information

Additional Information

For additional information and assistance on frauds and scams, please visit the following websites sponsored by the Texas Attorney General’s Office:

Protect Your Information


You may also subscribe to LifeLock or call 800-543-3562. For additional tips on repairing credit and fraud prevention tips, please visit the Federal Trade Commission - Consumer.