Final answer:
The correct first step after becoming a victim of identity theft is to contact the Federal Trade Commission for assistance and advice. It is crucial to act quickly to protect yourself and start the recovery process. Safeguarding personal data and monitoring credit history are also important preventive measures. so the correct answer is option D.
Step-by-step explanation:
If you become a victim of identity theft, the most appropriate first step to take is to contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for assistance and advice. Doing so will help you understand the necessary actions to protect yourself and start the recovery process.
The FTC can guide you through the steps such as placing a fraud alert on your credit reports, closing any fraudulent accounts opened in your name, and filing a police report. It is essential to act promptly and not wait to see where the perpetrator is spending your money, as this could lead to further financial loss and complications. Additionally, while contacting friends and neighbors might be well-intentioned, it is unlikely to provide actionable information on the perpetrator.
As part of protecting oneself from identity theft, individuals should safeguard their personal data, monitor their credit history, and be cautious when sharing personal information, especially in situations like job hunting or online interactions.