If you are the victim of identity theft, it is vital that you act quickly to
minimise the damage to your name and your financial reputation.
In Singapore, the
first thing you should do is file a police report. Even if the police can’t
catch the identity thief, having a copy of the police report can help you when
dealing with creditors. Get a copy of the police report in case the bank, credit
card company or others need proof of the crime.
You should also report the identify theft to Credit Bureau (Singapore) Pte Ltd (CBS). Inform CBS that your personal particulars are being used by an unauthorised person to obtain
credit fraudulently in your name.
Review your credit report with CBS to see which
creditors have reported activity that is fraudulent. Immediately contact all new
and existing creditors that have become involved, by telephone and again in writing.
If you wish to maintain an account with a business, replace the existing account with a new one.
When dealing with the authorities, creditors and financial institutions keep a log of
names, dates, times, correspondence addresses and telephone numbers; include a synopsis
of all conversations.
Follow up all conversations in writing, recapping the conversation
and any conclusions that were reached. Keep and file all correspondence. Send all
correspondence by certified mail, return receipt requested. Print out and file all email.
Keep a record of the amount of time you spend working on the matter: You may later be
able to seek restitution.
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Protect Against Fraud
