What to Do with Identity Theft: Immediate Steps to Take if You Are a Victim
- Check Your Credit Reports for Suspicious Activity - The first signs of identity theft often appear in your credit report. Criminals may open new accounts or take out loans in your name. Check your credit reports with Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion for any suspicious activity. If you spot any unfamiliar accounts or inquiries, dispute them immediately.
- Place a Fraud Alert and Freeze Your Credit - To prevent further damage, place a fraud alert on your credit file. This notifies creditors to verify your identity before issuing credit. This can be done by contacting one of the three major bureaus, which will notify the others. Consider placing a credit freeze for added protection. A freeze will stop anyone from opening new accounts in your name without your authorization, though it must be temporarily lifted when applying for new credit.
- Report the Theft to IdentityTheft.gov - The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) provides an easy-to-use platform for reporting identity theft and creating a personalized recovery plan. File a report at IdentityTheft.gov. This documentation is essential when dealing with creditors, financial institutions, and law enforcement.
- File a Police Report if Necessary - If your identity theft involves criminal activity—such as someone using your identity to commit crimes—you should file a police report. This can help you protect yourself from wrongful criminal charges. It’s also required by many creditors when disputing fraudulent claims. You can file a report with the New York Police Department (NYPD) here: NYPD Reporting Page.
- Contact Affected Companies to Correct the Problem - Notify any affected businesses, banks, and credit card companies immediately. Whether it’s unauthorized transactions or new accounts, reaching out early is key to resolving the issue. Ensure written confirmation that fraudulent accounts have been closed and any charges have been removed.
- Get Proper Legal Assistance - Identity theft cases can quickly become complicated, involving disputes with creditors, credit bureaus, and financial institutions. Having legal representation ensures your rights are protected, wrongful debts are challenged, and financial institutions are held accountable for their role in the fraud. Petroff Amshen LLP provides strategic legal support to help victims restore their financial standing and peace of mind.
