Ask the Attorney General

Q: Someone opened multiple wireless phone accounts in my name and racked up a bunch of charges. How can I put a security freeze on my credit report to prevent further harm?

A: (Attorney General Rob McKenna) — Under changes made to the state's Fair Credit Reporting Act in July, Washington residents may put a "security freeze" on their credit report if they are a victim of identity theft, or if their personal information has been compromised in such a way that they could become a victim.

Previously, consumers could only put a "fraud alert" on their credit report. A security freeze is tougher medicine; it means that your credit report cannot be shared with potential creditors. Since most businesses will not open credit accounts without checking a consumer's credit history first, a security freeze can prevent identity theft or reduce the likelihood of further harm.

Under Washington law, a lost wallet or purse alone would likely not be sufficient grounds for requesting a freeze. However, if someone used that stolen information to purchase goods or services, or open a new line of credit, that would likely qualify. Consumers whose personal information is compromised in a security breach are eligible for a security freeze, even if their information has not been used to commit another crime. The law also applies to businesses that are direct targets of identity theft.

To request a security freeze, file a police report in either the jurisdiction where the crime took place or where you live. Send a request for a security freeze to the three major credit reporting agencies: Equifax, Experian and Trans Union. Your request must be sent by certified mail and include a copy of a police report. Although the credit bureaus generally share information related to a fraud alert or credit freeze, they are not required to do so. The addresses are:

Equifax Security Freeze, P.O. Box 105788, Atlanta, GA 30348

Experian Security Freeze, P.O. Box 9554, Allen, TX 75013

Trans Union Security Freeze, P.O. Box 6790, Fullerton, CA 92834-6790

With a freeze in place, your report can still be released to companies you already do business with or to collection agencies acting on their behalf.

To suggest a future topic for this column, send an e-mail to asktheag@atg.wa.gov or write to "Ask the AG", Attorney General's Office, 900 4th Ave. Suite 2000, Seattle, WA 98164-1012.