Kellogg Corporate Security would like all Kellogg retirees to be aware of recent reports of illegitimate phone requests for personal information.

According to reports, an individual identifying herself as a Kellogg Company Human Resources representative recently contacted a Kellogg retiree attempting to get specific identity information related to their retirement plan.

The individual asked for checking account and Medicare information alleging that if this information were not verified, the next pension check would be delayed.

While Kellogg Security is investigating the identity of this individual and the reason for the calls, please be aware that this type of telephone contact is a common method for identity theft.

What to do if you receive a suspicious call:

• If someone calls you inquiring about your personal information, tell that person you will not discuss that type of information over the phone.
  
  
• Request a name and phone number where he or she can be reached. Often the caller will not provide a callback number, but instead give an urgent reason why you should provide them the information immediately.
  
  
• If you are pressured to provide information, resist the pressure to do so. Instead, ask the caller for additional identifying information – name (first/last), phone number, office location, department, and position. Let her or him know you will verify the information and call them back.
  
  
• If a callback number is provided, check that number against your account information on the statements you receive at home by mail. Only return a call to a number that you are confident has come from a legitimate source.

Always be cautious and careful with your personal information.

What can you do if you think, or know, that your identity has been stolen?

To minimize the extent of the damage, take action as soon as possible:

• Contact companies, including banks, where you have accounts - Inform the companies where you have accounts that someone may be using your identity, and find out if there have been any unauthorized transactions. Close accounts so that future charges are denied. In addition to calling the company, send a letter so there is a record of the problem.
  
  
• Contact the main credit reporting companies (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) - Check your credit report to see if there has been unexpected or unauthorized activity. Have fraud alerts placed on your credit reports to prevent new accounts being opened without verification.
  
  
• File a report - File a report with the local police so there is an official record of the incident. You can also file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.
  
  
• Consider other information that may be at risk - Depending on what information was stolen, you may need to contact other agencies. For example, if a thief has access to your Social Security number, contact the Social Security Administration. You should also contact the Department of Motor Vehicles if your driver's license or car registration has been stolen.