What do I do if I think my identify has been stolen?

If you believe that your identity has been stolen:

  • Contact the fraud department of one of the following 3 credit reporting agencies:
    • Equifax: 800-525-6285
      P.O. Box 740241
      Atlanta, GA, 30374-0241
    • Experian: 1-888-EXPERIAN (397-3742)
      P.O. Box 9532
      Allen, TX, 75013
    • TransUnion: 800-680-7289
      Fraud Victim Assistance Division
      P.O. Box 6790
      Fullerton, CA, 92834-6790
  • Ask them to put a FRAUD ALERT on your credit report. The fraud alert tells creditors to contact you before opening any new accounts or making any changes to your existing accounts. You only need to contact one of the three companies to place an alert. The company you call is required to contact the other two, which will place an alert on their versions of your report, too. Once you place the fraud alert in your file, you're entitled to order free copies of your credit reports, and, if you ask, only the last four digits of your Social Security number will appear on your credit reports.
  • Close the accounts that you know or believe have been tampered with or opened fraudulently.
  • File a report with your local police or the police in the community where the identity theft took place. Get a copy of the report or at the very least, the number of the report, to submit to your creditors and others that may require proof of the crime.

Show All Answers

1. What is identity theft?
2. How can I minimize my risk?
3. I have a computer and use the Internet. What should I be concerned about?
4. What is an active duty military alert?
5. Are companies allowed to print my entire credit card number on my receipt?
6. When should I give out my Social Security number?
7. What do I do if I think my identify has been stolen?