How to Fix Identity Theft on a Credit Report

July 31, 2025

How to Fix Identity Theft on a Credit Report

Identity theft doesn't always start with stolen money—it often begins with inaccurate information.

When someone opens a credit account in your name or uses your personal information for a loan or lease, it can take weeks or months before you realize what happened. By then, the damage to your credit report—and your financial health—may already be disastrous.

If you're asking yourself how to fix identity theft on a credit report, the steps you take next are critical. The key is to act early, document everything, and know your rights under federal law.

A Growing Problem in New York and New Jersey

The risk of identity theft isn't just national—it's sharply rising in New York and New Jersey. According to Q1 2025 data:

New York saw 18,668 total reports of identity theft, or 74 reports per 100k population.

Credit Card: 8,898

Loan or Lease: 2,410

Bank Accounts: 1,560

New Jersey reported 9,235 cases, with 100 reports per 100k population.

Credit Card: 4,446

Loan or Lease: 1,214

Bank Accounts: 769

These numbers reflect a growing vulnerability in both states, where increased digital activity and data sharing have created more opportunities for identity fraud to occur.

“Our role begins when a consumer’s efforts aren’t taken seriously. If your credit is under attack, you deserve to be protected—not ignored.”

Step 1: Review and Document Every Inaccuracy

If you suspect identity theft on your credit report, the first step is to request your report from all three major credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.

Look for:

Accounts you didn’t open

Credit inquiries you didn’t authorize

Missed payments on unfamiliar accounts

Keep a record of what you find. Taking screenshots or printing reports is essential for building your case.

Step 2: File a Credit Dispute Immediately

Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), you have the right to dispute inaccurate or fraudulent information. Send a written dispute to each credit bureau listing the error, and include copies of your supporting documentation.

Be specific. Mention the item in question, explain why it’s incorrect, and request its removal. Keep a copy of all correspondence for your records.

This is where the phrase identity theft credit report becomes more than a keyword—it becomes the first battleground in your defense.

Step 3: File an Identity Theft Report and Consider a Credit Freeze

Visit identitytheft.gov to file an official report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). This creates a legal record of the fraud you were a victim of. Then, consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name.

In New York and New Jersey, where reports are rising, fraud alerts are especially recommended—even after the first attempt is resolved.

When Legal Help Becomes Necessary

While many disputes can be resolved through self-reporting, legal intervention becomes necessary when:

Credit bureaus fail to investigate properly

Fraudulent items are re-reported after removal

Creditors refuse to remove false charges

“Our role begins when a consumer’s efforts aren’t taken seriously,” said Serge F. Petroff, Founding Partner of Petroff Amshen LLP.
“If your credit is under attack, you deserve to be protected—not ignored.”

Why Timing and Documentation Matter

The sooner you act, the more likely it is that errors can be corrected before they affect a mortgage application, a job offer, or a loan approval. In states like New York and New Jersey, where the data shows a consistent uptick in fraud, quick and well-documented responses can make all the difference.

Stay Proactive with Your Identity

Checking your credit regularly is one of the most powerful tools available. If you haven’t looked at your report in the last 12 months, now is the time. Visit AnnualCreditReport.com for free access to your reports.

If you’ve already spotted suspicious activity, consider a full identity theft credit report review—and if necessary, take legal action.

Connect with Petroff Amshen LLP

If you’re facing identity theft—or if you've taken the first steps but hit a wall—our legal team is here to help. We serve clients across New York and New Jersey, focusing on credit reporting issues, consumer protection, and identity theft resolution.

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