Identity Theft

Identity theft can drain your finances, destroy your credit, impact employment, educational opportunities, and cause an immense amount of stress.

Protect yourself from Identity Theft

  • Shred documents containing personal information
  • Do not store card information online
  • Avoid non-bank ATMs
  • Check card readers for signs of tampering
  • Be aware of your surroundings
  • Remember to always protect your personal information

Next Steps for Identity Theft Concerns

Identity Theft Resource Center

  • No-cost victim assistance. You can call 1-888-400-5530 for help with navigating the process of fighting identity theft, fraud, or scams, advice on communicating with credit issuers, financial services, credit reporting agencies, or law enforcement.
  • Consumer education. While you’re there, you can also access very valuable information that will educate you on scams and fraud–because there are many types! Sign up for their newsletter and get tips every week on how to keep yourself protected.
  • Live chat & app. The ITRC ID Theft Help app is free and gives you access to resources wherever you are. You can track your case, live chat with a specialist, and sign up for alerts on recent scams and data breaches.

Fraud Alert and Credit Freeze

If you have concerns about possible identity theft and want to place a fraud alert or freeze on your credit, you may do so at no cost through any of the three credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.

  • A fraud alert will make it harder for someone to open a new credit account in your name. A business must verify your identity before it issues new credit in your name.

When you place a fraud alert on your credit report, you can get a free copy of your credit report from each of the three credit bureaus.

  • A credit freeze restricts access to your credit report, which means you — or others — won’t be able to open a new credit account while the freeze is in place. You can temporarily lift the credit freeze if you need to apply for new credit.

When the freeze is in place, you will still be able to do things like apply for a job, rent an apartment, or buy insurance without lifting or removing it.

Next Steps for Confirmed Identity Theft

If you have had your identity stolen, you may report a confirmed identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission.  The FTC will provide a recovery plan and help you implement it .