We’ve all heard horror stories about fraud that’s committed using your name, address, Social Security number, credit card numbers, and other information.  It is possible for identity thieves not only to buy things and charge them to you, but also to raid your sav-ings and checking accounts, and to impersonate you in a variety of matters.  Unless you demonstrate that you were diligent in reporting the fraud promptly, you may not recover all losses.  Here is some critical information to limit the damage: You already know to cancel your credit cards immediately, but the key is having the toll free numbers and your card numbers available when you need them, so keep them where you can find them easily (NOT just in your wallet or purse, which might be stolen with the cards - keep a copy at home and in the car). File a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where the credit cards were stolen.  That proves to credit providers that you were diligent, and also may provide authorities with a valuable lead. Equally important: Call the three national credit reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and Social Security number.  It is also best to follow up by mail.  Their addresses and phone numbers are: TransUnion Fraud Victim Assistance Department PO Box 6790 Fullerton, CA 92834 800-680-7289 Monday through Friday 5:30 AM - 4:30 PM PST Fax: 714-447-6034 Equifax Credit Information Services Consumer Fraud Division PO Box 740256 Atlanta, GA 30374 800-525-6285 24 hours a day, 7 days a week Fax 770-375-2821 Experian Experian’s National Consumer Assistance PO Box 9530 Allen, TX 75013 888-397-3742 (888-EXPERIAN) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week For Hearing-impaired: 800 972 0322 You should also contact the Social Security Administration, even if you don't currently collect Social Security.  Their number is 800-772-1213 and you can reach a live person between 7 AM and 7 PM Monday through Friday. Lastly, contact all banks where you have accounts, to initiate special security precautions against unauthorized withdrawals. Most of the advice in the above article was submitted by a member who prefers to remain anonymous.