FTC Identity Theft Guide: How to Recover

FTC Identity Theft Guide: How to Recover

While dealing with problems resulting from identity theft can be time-consuming and frustrating, most victims can resolve their cases by being assertive, organized and knowledgeable about their legal rights. Below are some steps you should take immediately.

Place a “Fraud Alert” on your credit reports and review the reports carefully.
Fraud alerts can help prevent an identity thief from opening any more accounts in your name. Contact the toll-free fraud number of any of the three consumer reporting companies below to place a fraud alert on your credit report. You only need to contact one of the three companies to place an alert. The company you call is required to contact the other two, which will place an alert on their versions of your report, too. If you do not receive a confirmation from a company, you should contact that company directly to place a fraud alert.

  • Equifax: 800.525.6285
  • Experian: 888.EXPERIAN (397.3742)
  • TransUnion: 800.680.7289

Placing a fraud alert entitles you to free copies of your credit reports. Look for any transactions you can’t explain.

Notify credit companies.
Close the accounts that you know, or believe, have been tampered with or opened fraudulently.

  • Call the security or fraud departments of each company. Follow up in writing, with copies of supporting documents.
  • Use the ID Theft Affidavit at www.ftc.gov/idtheft to support your written statement.
  • Ask for verification that the disputed account has been closed and the fraudulent debts discharged.
  • Keep copies of documents and records of your conversations about the theft.

File a police report.
File a report with law enforcement officials to help you with creditors who may want proof of the crime. The FTC has tools including an ID Theft complaint form and cover letter that may be helpful in this process. You can find these tools at www.ftc.gov/idtheft.

Report the theft to the Federal Trade Commission.
Your report helps law enforcement officials in their investigations.

Quick Links