Repairing Identity Theft

If you suspect someone has stolen your identity, acting quickly to limit the damage is key. Take a deep breath, and then place a fraud alert on your credit file, order your credit reports, and call the FTC to report the crime.

What to Do Right Away

Immediate Steps to Repair Identity Theft

Here’s how to begin to limit the harm from identity theft.

What to Do Next

Extended Fraud Alerts and Credit Freezes

Placing both extended fraud alerts and credit freezes on your credit reports can make it more difficult for an identity thief to open new accounts in your name.

Repairing Your Credit After Identity Theft

Here are step-by-step instructions for disputing fraudulent charges and accounts related to identity theft.

Sample Letters and Forms for Victims of Identity Theft

Use these samples to help write your own letters to limit damage caused by identity theft.

Statement of Rights for Identity Theft Victims

Identity theft victims have several rights under federal law.

Specific Types of Identity Theft

Child Identity Theft

Here’s how to protect your child's personal information against theft.

Medical Identity Theft

An identity thief can use your personal information to get medical care or services. Find out how to respond.

Tax-Related Identity Theft

Do you know the warning signs that an identity thief is using your Social Security number?

Other Issues You May Confront

Clearing Your Name of Criminal Charges

You can clear your name of criminal charges resulting from identity theft.

Do You Need a New Social Security Number?

You must report the misuse of your Social Security number. Now, should you get a new — or replacement — number or card?

Identity Theft and Debt Collection

Learn how to dispute a debt with a collector, how to stop a collector from selling or transferring a debt that’s not yours, and how to stop calls and letters from a collector.

Lost or Stolen Credit, ATM, and Debit Cards

Federal law limits your liability if your credit, ATM, or debit card is lost or stolen, but your liability may depend on how quickly you report the loss or theft.

Misused Checking Accounts

Here’s what to do if someone uses your checking account.

Specific Problems Related to Identity Theft

Explains how to deal with lost, stolen or misused government-issued ID; stolen mail; investment, utility and student loan accounts that have been tampered with or fraudulently opened in your name; and fraudulent bankruptcy filings in your name.