What should you do if you are victim of a phishing scam?
- If you provided account numbers, PINs or passwords to a
phisher, notify the companies with which you have those accounts
immediately.
- Put a "fraud alert" on your files at the credit reporting
bureaus. For information about how to do that and other advice for
ID theft victims, contact the Federal Trade Commission's ID Theft
Clearinghouse at www.consumer.gov/idtheft, or toll-free,
877-438-4338. The TDD number is 202-326-2502.
- File a "Miscellaneous Incidents" report at a police station
where the identity theft occurred, and get a copy of the police
report. It can help you deal with creditors who need proof of
the crime.
- Even if you were not victimized, you should report phishing to
the company or agency that was being impersonated and to the
National Consumers League's National Fraud Information Center, www.fraud.org or
toll-free 800-876-7060. The TDD number is 202-835-0778.
Remember, security tools such as PIN numbers and passwords help
keep your transactions safe. Keep them private. Learn more about
how to protect your personal and financial information at www.phishinginfo.org.