"...recovering from identity theft can be difficult, costly, and stressful, but what is most alarming is that despite the time, money, and personal duress victims go through, resolution is not always achieved."

Kirk Herath, the associate general counsel for Nationwide

Credit Report

Being informed about your credit history and your credit record with major credit reporting companies is an important part in staying one step ahead of identity theft criminals.

Under the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act (FACT Act) consumers can request and obtain a free credit report once every 12 months from each of the three nationwide consumer credit reporting companies, Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.

The companies created a website, http://www.annualcreditreport.com where consumers can apply for a free credit report. You should use this website to obtain your credit report free of charge.

Don't forget that only one report per company per year is free. Also, only your credit report, not your FICO score is available (FICO score can be purchased for a small fee).

If you believe that your credit report contains incorrect information, you must notify the credit reporting agency in writing with copies of supporting documents. The credit reporting agency must investigate and respond to your inquiry within 30 days.