Identity Theft Recovery

Step 1: Call the companies where you know the fraud occured

• Call the fraud department. Explain that someone stole your identity.
• Ask them to close or freeze the accounts. Then, no one can add new charges unless you agree.
• Change logins, passwords and PINS for your accounts

Step 2: Place a fraud alert and get your credit reports

• Place a free, one-year fraud alert by contacting one of the three credit bureaus. That company must tell the other two.
  • Experian.com/help
    888-experian (888-397-3742)
  • TransUnion.com/credit-help
    888-909-8872
  • Equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services
    800-685-1111
• Get your free credit reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Visit Annual Credit Report or call 1-877-322-8228.

Step 3: Report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission

• Complete the online Identity Theft form  or call 1-877-438-4338. Include as many details as possible.

Step 4: Go to your local police office with:

• a copy of your FTC Identity Theft Report
• a government-issued ID with a photo
• proof of your address (mortgage statement, rental agreement, or utilities bill)
• any other proof you have of the theft (bills, IRS notices, etc.)
• Tell the police someone stole your identity and you need to file a report. Ask for a copy of the police report.