IDENTITY THEFT REFERENCE GUIDE

Did you get a data breach notice?

• What To Do Right Away

• • Are you dealing with tax, medical, or child identity theft? See: Special forms of identity theft
  • Step 1: Call the companies where you know fraud occurred.
    • Call the fraud department. Explain that someone stole your identity.
    • Ask them to close or freeze the accounts. Then, no one can add new charges unless you agree.
    • Change logins, passwords, and PINS for your accounts. You might have to contact these companies again after you have an FTC Identity Theft Report.
  • Step 2: Place a fraud alert and get your credit reports.
    • Place a free, one-year fraud alert by contacting one of the three credit bureaus. That company must tell the other two.
      • Experian.com/help (888-EXPERIAN, 888-397-3742)
      • TransUnion.com/credit-help (888-909-8872)
      • Equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services (800-685-1111)
    • A fraud alert is free. It will make it harder for someone to open new accounts in your name. When you have an alert on your report, a business must verify your identity before it issues new credit in your name. You can renew the fraud alert after one year.
    • You’ll get a letter from each credit bureau. It will confirm that they placed a fraud alert on your file.
    • Get your free credit reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Go to annualcreditreport.com or call 1-877-322-8228.
    • You can check your reports every week for free at AnnualCreditReport.com.
    • Review your reports. Make note of any account or transaction you don’t recognize. This will help you report the theft to the FTC and the police.
  • Step 3: Report identity theft to the FTC.
    • Complete the online form or call 1-877-438-4338. Include as many details as possible.
    • Based on the information you enter, IdentityTheft.gov will create your Identity Theft Report and recovery plan.
    • Your identity theft report proves to businesses that someone stole your identity. It also guarantees you certain rights.
    • If you create an account, we'll walk you through each recovery step, update your plan as needed, track your progress, and pre-fill forms and letters for you.
    • If you don't create an account, you must print and save your Identity Theft Report and recovery plan right away. Once you leave the page, you won't be able to access or update them.
  • You may choose to file a report with your local police department.
    • Go to your local police office with:
      • a copy of your FTC Identity Theft Report
      • a government-issued ID with a photo
      • proof of your address (mortgage statement, rental agreement, or utilities bill)
      • any other proof you have of the theft (bills, IRS notices, etc.)
    • Tell the police someone stole your identity and you need to file a report.
    • Ask for a copy of the police report. You may need this to complete other steps.
• What To Do Next
  • Take a deep breath and begin to repair the damage.
  • Close new accounts opened in your name.
    • Now that you have an FTC Identity Theft Report, call the fraud department of each business where an account was opened.
    • Explain that someone stole your identity.
    • Ask the business to close the account.
    • Ask the business to send you a letter confirming that:
      • the fraudulent account isn’t yours
      • you aren’t liable for it
      • it was removed from your credit report
    • Keep this letter. Use it if the account appears on your credit report later on.
    • The business may require you to send them a copy of your FTC Identity Theft Report or complete a special dispute form. This sample letter can help.
    • Write down who you contacted and when.
  • Remove bogus charges from your accounts.
    • Call the fraud department of each business.
    • Explain that someone stole your identity.
    • Tell them which charges are fraudulent. Ask the business to remove them.
    • Ask the business to send you a letter confirming that:
      • the fraudulent charges were removed
      • you aren’t liable for them
      • they were removed from your credit report
    • Keep this letter. Use it if this account appears on your credit report later on.
    • The business may require you to send them a copy of your FTC Identity Theft Report or complete a special dispute form. This sample letter can help.
    • Write down who you contacted and when.
  • Correct your credit report.
    • Write to each of the three credit bureaus. This sample letter can help.
    • Include a copy of your FTC Identity Theft Report and proof of your identity, like your name, address, and Social Security number.
    • Explain which information on your report came from identity theft.
    • Ask them to block that information.
      • TransUnion.com
      • Fraud Victim Assistance Department, P.O. Box 2000, Chester, PA 19016, 1-800-680-7289
      • Equifax.com
      • P.O. Box 105069, Atlanta, GA 30348-5069, 1-800-525-6285
      • Experian.com
      • P.O. Box 9554, Allen, TX 75013, 1-888-397-3742
    • If someone steals your identity, you have the right to remove fraudulent information from your credit report. This is called blocking. Once the information is blocked, it won’t show up on your credit report, and companies can’t try to collect the debt from you. If you have an FTC Identity Theft Report, credit bureaus must honor your request to block this information.
    • If you don’t have an FTC Identity Theft Report, you still can dispute incorrect information in your credit file. It can take longer, and there’s no guarantee that the credit bureaus will remove the information.
  • Consider adding an extended fraud alert or credit freeze.
    • Extended Fraud Alert:
    • A company must contact you before granting new credit in your name.
    • Free to place and remove. Available if someone stole your identity.
    • Lasts for 7 years
    • Set it by contacting one of the three nationwide credit bureaus. That one must tell the other two:
      • TransUnion.com/credit-help (888-909-8872)
      • Experian.com/help (888-397-3742)
      • Equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services (800-685-1111)
    • Credit Freeze:
    • Prevents potential creditors from accessing your credit report
    • Costs: Free to place and lift
    • Lasts: Until you lift it
    • Set it by contacting each of the three credit bureaus:
      • TransUnion.com/credit-help (888-909-8872)
      • Experian.com/help (888-397-3742)
      • Equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services (800-685-1111)
  • Monitor your progress and repeat as necessary
  • Sample Letters and Forms
    • IdentityTheft.gov/SampleLetters

Source: https://www.identitytheft.gov/#/Steps

Identity Theft: Steps to Protect Yourself and Recover

Print our Identity Theft Checklist here
Identity theft is a serious crime where someone steals your personal information to commit fraud. If you suspect you're a victim, follow these crucial steps to protect yourself and begin the recovery process.

Immediate Actions to Take

1. Report to the FTC:
   • Visit IdentityTheft.gov to report the theft. The site will create a recovery plan tailored to your situation.
   • The FTC provides an Identity Theft Report, which you can use to prove to businesses that someone stole your identity.
2. Place Fraud Alerts and Credit Freezes:
   • Contact one of the three credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion) to place a fraud alert on your credit report. This alert will make it harder for the thief to open new accounts in your name.
   • Consider freezing your credit to prevent new accounts from being opened without your consent.
3. Review Credit Reports:
   • Obtain free copies of your credit reports from AnnualCreditReport.com. Check for any fraudulent activity and report inaccuracies to the credit bureaus.

Additional Steps for Specific Types of Identity Theft

1. Tax Identity Theft:
   • If someone used your Social Security number to file a tax return, contact the IRS immediately.
   • File an Identity Theft Affidavit (Form 14039) and continue to file your taxes, even if you must do so by paper.
2. Medical Identity Theft:
   • Request copies of your medical records from your providers. Review these records and report any errors to your healthcare providers.
   • File complaints with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services if necessary.
3. Social Security Number Misuse:
   • If your Social Security number was misused, contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) for assistance. You may need to request a new Social Security number in extreme cases.

Preventive Measures

1. Secure Your Information:
   • Use strong, unique passwords for your online accounts and enable multi-factor authentication where possible.
   • Be cautious of phishing scams and never share personal information through unsolicited emails or phone calls.
2. Monitor Your Accounts Regularly:
   • Regularly check bank statements, credit card bills, and insurance statements for unusual activity.
   • Consider using credit monitoring services to receive alerts about changes to your credit report.

Identity theft can be overwhelming, but taking immediate and informed steps can mitigate the damage. For a comprehensive guide and to start your recovery plan, visit IdentityTheft.gov.

For more detailed information and resources, visit IdentityTheft.gov/Steps.

In a remarkable feat for environmental responsibility, Shred Bull Shredding, a prominent mobile shredding service based in Orange County, has reached new heights by recycling a staggering 20,000 pounds of paper in the last week alone. The company, renowned for its impeccable service, holds a stellar reputation with a string of 5-star reviews on both Google and Yelp.

Shred Bull Shredding distinguishes itself by offering on-the-go shredding services that cater to both homes and offices in Orange County. The unique mobile shredding service ensures that all shredding is done right at the customer's location, providing a secure and convenient solution for document destruction.

"We come to you & shred everything at your location!" echoes the company's commitment to delivering top-notch, secure, and compliant shredding services. Specializing in one-time shredding services, Shred Bull ensures 100% compliance with all state and U.S. privacy laws, including HIPAA and FACTA.

One of the key aspects that sets Shred Bull apart is its dedication to environmental sustainability. Unlike traditional shredding services that may contribute to landfill waste, Shred Bull takes a green approach by recycling all shredded materials. This commitment aligns with the company's ethos of contributing positively to the environment.

"All recycled paper goes to a certified recycler in LA and is recycled into toilet paper and paper towels," reveals the company spokesperson. This eco-friendly initiative not only minimizes waste but also transforms discarded paper into everyday essentials, making a tangible impact on sustainability.

The mobile shredding service is equipped with state-of-the-art machinery, boasting a 2020 shredding truck that ensures safety, speed, and efficiency in the shredding process. Being locally owned and operated in Orange County, Shred Bull Shredding distinguishes itself from larger franchises by offering affordable and transparent pricing.

"We are local, Orange County owned & operated…not a chain or franchise. Shred Bull Orange County is affordable and upfront with pricing, we beat the big guys' prices," asserts the company, emphasizing its commitment to providing cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality.

For those looking to witness the secure shredding process firsthand, Shred Bull offers on-location shredding at just $99 for 10 boxes (15" x 12" x 10"). This cost-effective service allows customers to have their documents shredded right before their eyes, ensuring peace of mind and compliance with privacy laws.

In an era where environmental consciousness and data security are paramount, Shred Bull Shredding emerges as a beacon of excellence, demonstrating that sustainable practices can go hand-in-hand with top-tier service. As the company continues to redefine the shredding landscape, it stands as a testament to the positive impact businesses can have on both the community and the planet.

A Deep Dive into the 2024 Trends

Unraveling the Mysteries: Document Shredding Costs Soaring in 2024

In the bustling landscape of Orange County, California, businesses are witnessing an unprecedented surge in document shredding prices. As the owner of Shred Bull Shredding, John Chapman, a recognized local expert in mobile shredding services, sheds light on the factors propelling this notable increase. Let's delve into the intricacies and understand why businesses are experiencing this financial ripple.

The Shredding Landscape in 2024

Navigating the Shredding Waters: A Glimpse into Orange County's Shredding Scene

Orange County, known for its vibrant business environment, has seen an exponential rise in the need for secure document disposal. With Shred Bull Shredding leading the charge by shredding over 10,000 pounds of paper weekly, the demand for reliable shredding services has never been higher.  At Shred Bull, prices today are the same as they were in 2016, and this is likely to change in the coming months.

Market Forces at Play

Economic Shifts: Impacting Document Shredding Costs

In the ever-evolving economic landscape, the costs associated with document shredding are not immune to fluctuations. Various factors, such as raw material prices, fuel costs, and technological advancements in shredding machinery, contribute to the overall rise in service fees. As we traverse through 2024, businesses find themselves adapting to these inevitable shifts.  Price in many industries are on the rise as inflation continues to impact consumer services in general.

Technology's Price Tag

Cutting-Edge Shredding: A Costly Endeavor

In an era where technological advancements are rapid, the document shredding industry is not exempt. State-of-the-art shredding equipment, designed to meet heightened security standards, comes at a premium. As Shred Bull Shredding invests in cutting-edge technology to ensure the utmost confidentiality, the costs are inevitably passed on to the consumer.

Regulatory Compliance

Navigating the Legal Maze: Compliance Costs on the Rise

With an increasing emphasis on data protection and privacy, regulatory requirements surrounding document disposal have become more stringent. Shred Bull Shredding, as a responsible service provider, invests significantly in adhering to these regulations. The costs associated with maintaining compliance contribute substantially to the overall increase in shredding prices.

Customer Commitment: John Chapman's Perspective

Local Expertise: John Chapman's Commitment to Orange County Businesses

John Chapman, the face behind Shred Bull Shredding, is not just a business owner but a dedicated advocate for local businesses in Orange County. His commitment to providing top-notch mobile shredding services stems from a profound understanding of the community's unique needs.

Supporting Local Initiatives

Shred Bull Shredding: More Than Just a Service Provider

Beyond its role as a shredding service, Shred Bull Shredding actively supports local initiatives. By choosing Shred Bull, businesses contribute to the growth and sustainability of the Orange County community. This aligns with John Chapman's vision of fostering a collaborative and secure business environment.

Conclusion: Navigating the Shredding Landscape

In conclusion, the surge in document shredding prices in 2024 is a multifaceted phenomenon driven by economic shifts, technological advancements, regulatory compliance, and the commitment of local service providers like Shred Bull Shredding. As businesses adapt to this new financial landscape, John Chapman remains at the forefront, ensuring Orange County's businesses continue to thrive in a secure and compliant environment.

Safeguarding Your Privacy: The Crucial Importance of Shredding Sensitive Data

In today's digitized world, the protection of private information is of paramount importance. The data we store on our devices—ranging from personal documents to confidential business files—is at constant risk of falling into the wrong hands. This article delves into the critical significance of shredding sensitive data, whether it's in the form of physical documents, digital devices, or hard drives. As a security expert, I aim to provide you with comprehensive insights into why shredding is an essential practice and how it can effectively safeguard your privacy.  When you hire a shredding company it is important to witness the destruction, don't trust any one who leaves with your devices or documents intact.  With mobile shredding the shredding company comes to you and shreds everything at your location(on-site).

Why is it Crucial to Shred Your Sensitive Data?

As someone deeply immersed in the field of security, I can affirm that shredding sensitive data is more than just a routine practice—it's a proactive measure that significantly enhances your data security. Here are some compelling reasons to prioritize shredding:

1. Preventing Identity Theft

Identity theft has evolved into a sophisticated criminal enterprise, where stolen personal information is used to commit various fraudulent activities. Discarded physical documents and old devices become treasure troves for identity thieves. Shredding these materials makes it exceedingly difficult for malicious actors to piece together the fragments of your information and compromise your identity.

2. Mitigating Cyber security Risks

Digital devices, when disposed of improperly, pose significant cyber security risks. Hackers can retrieve sensitive data from discarded devices, potentially leading to data breaches and unauthorized access. Shredding these devices ensures that the data is rendered unrecoverable, thus minimizing the likelihood of cyber threats.

3. Ensuring Regulatory Compliance

In the ever-evolving landscape of data protection regulations, individuals and businesses are obligated to handle sensitive information responsibly. Shredding documents and devices containing personal data aligns with legal requirements, preventing legal repercussions and potential fines.

4. Fostering Environmental Responsibility

Beyond data security, shredding also contributes to environmental preservation. E-waste poses environmental hazards due to the presence of toxic materials. By shredding and recycling devices, you not only secure your data but also play a role in minimizing the ecological impact of improper disposal.

5. Countering Corporate Espionage

For businesses, protecting sensitive information is crucial to thwart corporate espionage attempts. Competitors or adversaries may seek to gain an advantage by targeting confidential business data. Shredding documents and devices ensures that proprietary information remains confidential, safeguarding your company's interests.

6. Upholding Personal and Professional Reputations

Data breaches can irreparably damage personal and professional reputations. Shredding documents and devices reduces the risk of such breaches, allowing you to maintain control over your private life and professional image.

Shred Bull: Your Trusted Shredding Partner

As a security expert, I emphasize the importance of utilizing professional shredding services to enhance your data security. One such reputable service is Shred Bull, located in Lake Forest, CA. This mobile shredding company specializes in providing secure and efficient document destruction services for both residential clients and businesses.

Shred Bull's commitment to compliance with privacy laws, including HIPAA and FACTA, sets them apart in the field. Operating as a locally owned and owner-operated shredding company, Shred Bull takes pride in delivering top-tier data destruction services.

With a solid track record evidenced by 5-star reviews on platforms like Yelp and Google, Shred Bull has earned the trust of numerous clients seeking reliable and affordable shredding solutions. Their expertise and dedication make them an ideal choice for all your shredding needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can't I simply delete files from my digital devices?
A: While deletion might seem effective, data can often be recovered. Shredding ensures complete and irreversible data destruction.  It is important to witness the destruction, don't trust any one who leaves with your devices or documents intact.

Q: Are there specific documents I should shred?
A: Any documents containing sensitive information—such as financial records, medical files, and personal identification—should be shredded.

Q: How often should I engage in shredding?
A: Regular shredding, especially before disposing of devices or documents, is advisable. An annual audit can help identify items to shred.

Q: Is recycling without shredding secure?
A: Recycling without shredding leaves data vulnerable. Shredding guarantees data destruction before recycling.

Q: How can I choose a reliable shredding service?
A: Look for reputable companies with a proven history of secure and environmentally conscious data disposal.  Yelp and google reviews will show you how the company treat their clients...don't believe the big guys marketing hype. Those big companies use marketing to make up for their terrible customer service, high prices and un-necessary contracts.

Q: Can digital files be securely shredded?
A: Yes, software and magnets can not securely erase all digital files.  The only way to be sure your hard disk drive's data can not be recovered is to shred them.  It is important to witness the destruction, don't trust any one who leaves with your devices or documents intact.

As a security expert, I stress that the importance of witnessed shredding of your confidential data. In a world where data breaches and identity theft pose significant risks, proactive measures are essential. By embracing shredding practices, you're taking a crucial step toward enhancing your data security, safeguarding your privacy, and minimizing potential harm. With trusted services like Shred Bull, you can make informed decisions to protect your data, maintain your reputation, and contribute to a safer digital environment.  Shred Bull comes to you and shreds your hard drives and documents while you watch...now that is as secure as you can get.

John Chapman, founder of Shred Bull Shredding

Shred Bull is your premier mobile shredding partner in Lake Forest, CA, offering top-notch shredding services tailored for businesses and residential clients alike. Our commitment to privacy and security is unparalleled, as we diligently adhere to all privacy laws, including the rigorous standards of HIPAA and FACTA.

As a locally owned and owner-operated shredding company, Shred Bull takes a personalized approach to ensure your sensitive documents are handled with care. Our services are not only convenient but also compliant, providing you with peace of mind as you entrust us with your confidential information.

Convenience meets affordability at Shred Bull. Proudly displaying our prices online, we offer an unbeatable rate of just $99 for 10 boxes, making secure document destruction accessible to everyone. Whether you're a business seeking to safeguard sensitive data or a residential client in need of secure shredding, Shred Bull is your reliable partner.

Our dedication to excellence is reflected in our 5-star reviews on both Yelp and Google. Customers commend our professionalism, efficiency, and commitment to confidentiality.

Join the ranks of satisfied clients who have experienced the Shred Bull difference. Contact us today and take the first step towards a more secure future!

How many trees have our customers saved in the last year?

Shred Bull Shredding recycles 10,000 pounds of paper per week, which saves around 240 trees every year.

Celebrate Earth Day!

Earth Day 2023 is fast approaching, and at Shred Bull Shredding, we are committed to doing our part to protect the planet. We know that every little bit counts, which is why we strive to make a positive impact on the environment in everything we do.

As a document shredding business...

We recognize that paper waste can be a significant contributor to environmental damage. That's why we recycle 10,000 pounds of paper every week, reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and conserving natural resources.

But we don't stop there. We've implemented eco-friendly practices throughout our operations, from using energy-efficient equipment to minimizing our carbon footprint by optimizing our routing and scheduling. We also donate a portion of our proceeds to environmental causes and volunteer in local cleanup efforts.  On this Earth Day, we encourage everyone to join us in making a difference. Whether it's by recycling, reducing your carbon footprint, or supporting eco-friendly businesses, we can all do our part to protect our planet. Let's work together to create a more sustainable future for ourselves and generations to come.

At Shred Bull Shredding, we are proud to be part of the solution. Join us in celebrating Earth Day 2023 and let's make a positive impact on the environment, one shred at a time. #EarthDay2023 #ShredBullShredding #Sustainability #ProtectThePlanet

**Assuming that each ton of recycled paper saves approximately 17 trees.  This is an estimate as the exact number of trees saved may vary based on factors such as the type of paper recycled and the method of paper production.  Nonetheless, it is clear that our commitment to recycling has a positive impact on the environment and helps to conserve natural resources.