• We have been told we should cancel our credit cards immediately. But the key is having the toll free numbers and your card numbers handy so you know whom to call. Keep those where you can find them easily. (see Copy the contents of your wallet)

• File a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where it was stolen. This proves to credit providers you were diligent, and is a first step toward an investigation (if there ever is one).

• Call the three national credit reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and Social Security number. The alert means any company that checks your credit knows your information was stolen and they have to contact you by phone to authorize new credit.

  The numbers are:

               Equifax: 1-800-525-6285

               Experian (formerly TRW): 1-888-397-3742

               Trans Union: 1-800-680-7289

               Social Security Administration (fraud line): 1-800-269-0271