Identity theft is a big issue and something that can happen to any of us. In fact, the issue is so big that a number of companies have begun selling coverage that protects and restores your good name.

Are these plans worth the money?

Karen Stiles of the TODAY’S TMJ4 Call For Action office has more information about identity theft protection and whether these plans may be for you.

Identity theft has been going on for quite some time, and prior to these plans being offered, people were, and still are, able to do a number of things to not only protect their identity, but to also restore their good name. However, if your identity is stolen, it can mean that you may have to spend a lot of time, and possibly money, to clear things up.

Some people may want to buy coverage to have someone else do all of the work. However, there are a number of things you can do on your own without having to pay for identity theft coverage.

To protect your identity, keep your personal identification private and secure, shred mail and documents before you dispose and check your free credit report ate least once per year.

Click on the link under related content to obtain a free credit report.

If you learn that your identity has been stolen, file a report with police. Also, notify credit reporting agencies, your bank and credit card issuers, social security, the DMV and any other businesses or government agencies that you may have a relationship with. Also, have a fraud alert placed on your credit report and check your credit report every couple of months and notify creditors immediately if these debts or accounts are not yours.

The TODAY’S TMJ4 Call For Action office has a great identity theft brochure if you want to learn more about how to protect and restore