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What to Do if You Suspect Your Identity Has Been Stolen

 

This video is also available with audio description.

1. Place an Initial Fraud Alert by calling one of the credit reporting agencies below:

2. Tell them:

  • You are a victim of identity theft
  • You want a fraud alert placed on your credit file
  • You’d like confirmation that they will notify the other two remaining credit reporting agencies

3. Order your credit reports

  • Get a credit report for all three agencies below. The reports will be free because you have already put a fraud alert on your account.
  • Equifax – 800.525.6285
  • Experian – 888.397.3742
  • Transunion – 800.680.7289

4. Create an Identity Theft Report

  • An identity theft report is made up of an identity theft affidavit and a police report. So first, create an identity theft affidavit.
  • Go to https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov and follow the steps to create your affidavit. Or, call the FTC at 877.438.4338 and they will walk you through the process and email you a link to complete your affidavit.
  • Bring your completed, printed affidavit to your local police department, along with:
  • Any other proof of theft
  • A government-issued ID with a photo
  • Proof of your address (rental agreement, paystub, or utility bill)
  • FTC’s Memo to Law Enforcement