Report Identity Theft

What to Do If Your Identity Has Been Stolen: A Detailed Guide
Identity theft can have severe consequences, but quick action can help minimize the damage. Follow these detailed steps if you suspect your identity has been stolen:
Step 1: Report the Identity Theft Immediately
  1. Visit IdentityTheft.gov
    • File an identity theft report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
    • Create a personalized recovery plan.
    • Download and print your Identity Theft Report and recovery plan for reference.
  2. Contact Your Local Police
    • File a police report if:
      • You know who stole your identity.
      • The thief used your identity during a police interaction.
      • A creditor or company requires a police report for dispute resolution.
  3. Notify Other Relevant Agencies
    • Social Security Administration (SSA): If your Social Security number was stolen, call 1-800-269-0271 or visit SSA’s website.
    • Internal Revenue Service (IRS): For tax fraud, submit IRS Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit.
Step 2: Place Fraud Alerts and Credit Freezes
  1. Contact One of the Three Major Credit Bureaus:
    2. When you place a fraud alert with one bureau, they are required to inform the others.
  2. Consider a Credit Freeze:
Keep track of your PINs and passwords to unfreeze your credit when necessary.
Step 3: Review and Dispute Credit Reports Thoroughly
  1. Obtain Free Credit Reports:
  2. Check for Suspicious Activity:
    • Look for accounts you didn’t open and unauthorized transactions.
    • Note any incorrect personal information.
  3. Dispute Unauthorized Accounts:
    • Write to the credit bureau and the fraud department of the affected company.
    • Include copies of your Identity Theft Report and supporting documents.
    • Request that fraudulent information be removed or blocked.

For more details, visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

Step 4: Close or Freeze Compromised Accounts
  1. Contact the Affected Companies:
    • Notify the fraud departments of affected banks, creditors, or utility companies.
    • Ask to close or freeze the compromised accounts.
    • Follow up in writing with copies of your Identity Theft Report.
  2. Replace Stolen Cards:
    • Request new credit, debit, or ATM cards with different numbers.

Monitor new cards for any suspicious activity.

Step 5: Strengthen Security on Existing Accounts
  1. Change Passwords and Security Questions:
    • Use strong, unique passwords for each account.
    • Update security questions to prevent unauthorized access.
  2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):
    • Add an extra layer of security for your financial and sensitive accounts.

Need More Help?

Visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau for additional resources and support.