Tips for Victims of Identity Theft

There are many resources available to you if you become a victim of identity theft or fraud. If you suspect someone has misused your personal information or you are a victim, then follow the four steps below.

Step 1: Place a Fraud Alert

1. Contact at least one of the three consumer reporting companies (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) and place a fraud alert on your credit report.
   An initial 90-day fraud alert will be added to your credit report. This alert notifies creditors to follow specific procedures before they open new accounts in your name or make changes to existing accounts.
   The company you call is required to contact the other two companies. By notifying all three companies, each version of your credit report includes the fraud alert.
2. Order a free copy of your credit report from each of the three reporting companies. Ask that they only display the last four digits of your SSN rather than the full number.
3. Carefully review the report for suspicious activity, such as inquiries from companies you did not contact, new accounts, or debts you can't explain. Make sure that your address(es), SSN, and employment history are correct.

Step 2: Close Accounts

1. Call the security or fraud departments of each company where your account(s) was changed or opened without your knowledge.
2. Follow up in writing with a request to close the accounts.
3. Use an ID Theft Affidavit (available at ftc.gov/idtheft) to support your written statement. The company may also ask that you fill out the company's affidavit stating you agree to prosecute.
4. Always ask for written verification of any interaction with the company, particularly when the account is closed and fraudulent charges are dismissed.

Step 3: File a Police Report

1. File a report with the police in the community where the identity theft took place.
2. Keep a copy of the police report.
3. For Ohio Residents: Complete the Identity Theft Verification Passport program application at the police station. This program provides identity theft victims a means of proving to law enforcement and creditors that their identity was stolen.

Step 4: Contact the FTC

Contact the Federal Trade Commission either:

• online: ftc.gov/idtheft
• phone: 1-877-ID-THEFT (438-4338) or TTY, 1-866-653-4261
• mail:

Also try the Identity Theft Fact Sheets for tools on protecting yourself.