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Identity theft and identity fraud are terms used to refer to all types of crime in which someone wrongfully obtains and uses another person’s personal data in some way that involves fraud or deception, typically for economic gain. Unlike your fingerprints, which are unique to you and cannot be given to someone else for his or her use, your personal data (Social Security number, bank account or credit card number, telephone calling card number and other valuable identifying data) can be used fraudulently.
Identity theft is a growing problem, and we are all at risk from this fast-growing crime. Because becoming a victim of identity fraud can turn a person’s world upside down, we have developed Identity Fraud Expense coverage to help you get back where you belong.
Identity Fraud Expense Coverage
Identity Fraud Expense coverage assists in the cost of repairing the credit problems caused by identity fraud by providing limited expense reimbursement.
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Costs of notarizing fraud affidavits or similar documents for financial institutions or credit agencies
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Costs of certified mail |
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Lost wages up to $500 per week |
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Loan application fees for reapplying for a loan |
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Reasonable attorney fees (with prior consent) |
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Long-distance telephone charges to report or discuss identity fraud
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Steps to Preventing Identity Theft
Here are steps you can take now to stop thieves from stealing your good name:
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Do not give out personal information, such as account or credit card numbers, on the phone or over the Internet unless you have initiated the contact. Identity thieves could pose as bank officials, Internet providers or credit card company representatives. Remember: Those with a right to this information (such as your bank) should already have it . . . and shouldn’t need to request it over the phone.
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Report lost or stolen checks immediately, and properly store canceled checks. Examine new checks to be sure that none were stolen during shipment, and store them in a safe and secure location. Destroy unused financial solicitations before discarding them, and tear up other financial documents such as statements or receipts before discarding them.
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Guard your automated teller machine (ATM) number, and treat your receipts with care. Leaving them behind or throwing them in the trash could leave them vulnerable to thieves, who could use them to access your accounts. |
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Make sure your mailbox is secure, and promptly remove mail after delivery. Identity thieves often raid mailboxes to obtain credit card offers and financial statements. |
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Contact the major credit-reporting companies at least annually to review their file. A copy of their credit report is available for a small fee. The three major credit bureaus are: |
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Equifax: (800) 685-1111
TransUnion: (800) 916-8800
Experian: (888) 397-3742
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Steps to Report Identity Theft
If you have been a victim of identity theft or know someone who has, please advise them to take these steps immediately:
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Contact your bank or credit union to protect your accounts.
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Contact your credit card suppliers. |
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Contact the Social Security Fraud Hotline: (800) 269-0271. |
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Contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Identity Theft Hotline: (877) IDTHEFT or (877) 438-4338. |
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Contact your Farmers agent to file a claim against your Identity Fraud Expense coverage endorsement. |
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Helpful Links
Here are some helpful links to websites that can provide additional information:
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