What to Do If You've Given Out Personal Information
As an Argent member, the security of your accounts and personal information is a top priority for us. If you think you are a victim of identity theft fraud, we have the resources to help.
Important Steps to Take
If you suspect that you’ve given out personal information, we will work with you and law enforcement agencies to investigate any suspicious activity. Follow these immediate steps:
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- Report the Incident: Contact us immediately at (804) 748-9488 or (800) 943-3328.
- Contact Credit Bureaus: Instruct them to flag your accounts with a “fraud alert.”
- Equifax Fraud Hotline: (800) 525-6285
- Experian Fraud Hotline: (888) 397-3742
- TransUnion Fraud Hotline: (800) 680-7289
- Notify Credit Card Companies: If you provided card account information in a scam, close any affected accounts and ensure they are marked as “closed at customer request.”
- File a Complaint with the FTC: Call the FTC Identity Theft Hotline at (877) 438-4338.
- Report to the Social Security Administration: Contact their Fraud Hotline at (800) 269-0271 to report unauthorized use of your Social Security number.
- Contact Local Law Enforcement: File a criminal report with your local police department.
- Notify the DMV: Inform the Department of Motor Vehicles about the identity theft.
- Document Everything: Keep a record of the names and phone numbers of everyone you speak to regarding the incident.
Get the Help Needed
The following resources provide comprehensive information on preventing identity theft and protecting yourself if your identity is compromised:
- The Office of the Attorney General of Virginia provides in depth, step-by-step instructions/FAQs on how to protect yourself from being a victim of identity theft.
- Privacy Rights is a nonprofit consumer organization created to spread information about your right to keep personal information private and to act as an advocate on your behalf.
- The Federal Trade Commission is the leading source of federal government regulations and general information about Identity Theft.
- Annual Credit Report helps you protect yourself by enabling you to get one free credit report per year from each of the 3 major credit reporting agencies.
Stay Informed and Protected
By following these steps and utilizing these resources, you can take control of your personal information and protect yourself from potential identity theft. Don’t forget that family can help you stay calm and work through the above steps.
Stay vigilant and informed to safeguard your financial and personal security.
Additional Resources
Online Security
Valuable information to maintain the highest level of security online and elsewhere.
Wallet Protection
Tips to minimize the potential damage from a lost or stolen wallet.
Annual Credit Report
Regularly reviewing your credit report is essential.