Respond — Take These Steps

Place a "fraud alert" on your credit reports and review these reports carefully. The alert tells creditors to follow certain procedures before they open new accounts in your name or make changes to your existing accounts.

Placing a fraud alert entitles you to free copies of your credit reports. Look for inquiries from companies you haven't contacted, accounts you didn't open or debts on your accounts you can't explain.

Close any accounts that have been tampered with or established fraudulently.

In addition:

• Call the security or fraud departments of each company where an account was opened or changed without your approval.
• Follow up in writing with copies of supporting documents. Use the ID Theft Affidavit at identitytheft.gov 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 report with local law enforcement to help you with creditors who may want proof of the crime.

In addition, consider contacting:

For more information about identity theft, visit the Federal Trade Commission's website.

Close any accounts that have been tampered with or established fraudulently.

In addition:

• Call the security or fraud departments of each company where an account was opened or changed without your approval.
• Follow up in writing with copies of supporting documents. Use the ID Theft Affidavit at identitytheft.gov 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 report with local law enforcement to help you with creditors who may want proof of the crime.

In addition, consider contacting:

For more information about identity theft, visit the Federal Trade Commission's website.