Avoid Identity Theft
Proving Yourself the Victim of Identity Theft
Steps to Take If You Suspect You Are The Victim of Identity Theft
Common Tactics Used by the Identity Thief
Identity Theft TrendsSteps to Take If You Suspect You
Are The Victim of Identity Theft
The first thing you should do if you suspect you've been the victim of identity theft is to contact the fraud department of any one of the three major credit bureaus.
The three credit bureaus are:
- Equifax
- Experian
- Trans Union
When you place a fraud alert on your credit file, creditors will be asked to contact you before opening any more credit accounts in your name. The credit bureaus work together to prevent identity theft, so just by contacting one of them to inform their fraud department that you've been the victim of identity theft, they will inform the others.
Equifax Identity Theft Fraud Hotline
800-525-6285
Experian Identity Theft Fraud Hotline
888-397-3742
Trans Union Identity Theft Fraud Hotline
800-680-7289
If you are indeed the victim of identity theft, then it's important to obtain a copy of your credit report so you can begin repairing the damage. Each credit bureau may charge you up to $9.00 for a copy of your credit report. However, you are entitled to one free report per year if you can show that your report it wrong due to fraud or identity theft. There is also no charge to obtain your credit report if a company has denied your application for credit and you request your report within 60 days of receiving then notice of the denial action.
source: Federal Trade Commission