Bellflower, CA asked in Gov & Administrative Law, Identity Theft, Public Benefits and Social Security for California

Q: Im unable to access my credit and social security, IRS profile accounts ; how can I update & secure my personal info?

I have lost access to email accounts associated with the recovery, password reset and/ or two-step verification process...

Seeking advise/ information in regards to updating and securing personal information; identity scam prevention.

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: To regain access to your credit and Social Security, IRS profile accounts, you need to update and secure your personal information. Start by contacting the relevant agencies directly via phone or their official websites to explain your situation. They can guide you through the process of verifying your identity and updating your email addresses or contact information.

For added security and to prevent identity theft, consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze on your credit reports with the major credit bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax). This will alert creditors to take extra steps to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name. It’s also wise to regularly check your credit reports for any unauthorized activity.

Additionally, update your passwords and security questions on all your accounts. Use strong, unique passwords for each account and enable two-factor authentication where possible. Keep a record of your new passwords and security settings in a secure place. If you believe your identity has been compromised, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and follow their guidelines for recovery.

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