My father and my boyfriend were 2 of the 26.5 million veterans whose information was stolen on that disk...?

...from that employee at the Department of Veteran Affairs. What kind of things should they do to make sure their credit score doesn't go up. One of them has already had someone open several credit cards in his name.

2006-06-08T19:16:26Z

Yeah, the "letter" basically said to keep a look out. Really a big help, huh?

masterofknowledge2006-06-07T14:30:14Z

Favorite Answer

They need to call the FTC and let them know their identities have been stolen. The FTC will send the necessary paperwork, and your father and boyfriend will have to call every credit bureau and loan office they've ever put their name on, as well as the DMV. Identity theft is the fastest growing crime in america right now, and they should register with a service to prevent anyone else from using their information to open accounts.

I actually market identity theft protection through a monthly membership through Kroll background, the largest risk management service. Check out the website.

john_stolworthy2006-06-09T00:34:03Z

Did they get the letter? I got mine today. It gives a web address and a phone # 1-800-FED-INFO. The website is listed below. The call center is open 8am to 9pm EDT. Call them first. The letter states that they do not believe it is necessary to contact financial institutions or cancel credit cards unless you detect suspicious activity. If there is suspicious activity, it most likely would have been during the month of May.

Anonymous2006-06-07T21:25:42Z

Yikes, what a drag!

They should get a credit report right away. It's FREE at www.annualcreditreport.com.

They should also contact those three credit reporting agencies to explain the situation; they'll put a "watch" on the account.

Also contact the Social Security Administration to report it.

folklore2006-06-07T23:08:41Z

Call your local veterans affairs agency at the courthouse. I'm sure you will be directed to the correct people to help you. I feel so bad that this had to happen to ...of all people.. our servicemen and women. Also, you can call your State Police.

bullticky2006-06-07T21:26:42Z

Have them obtain a credit report from the three leading reporting companys