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Essential
18 min readIdentity Theft Protection
Complete guide to protecting yourself from identity theft and recovering from credit fraud.
Emergency: If you suspect identity theft, act immediately. Time is critical in minimizing damage.
Warning Signs of Identity Theft
Credit Report Red Flags
- • Accounts you didn't open
- • Inquiries you didn't authorize
- • Incorrect personal information
- • Addresses where you never lived
- • Employers you never worked for
Financial Red Flags
- • Unexpected bills or statements
- • Missing mail or statements
- • Denied credit unexpectedly
- • Calls from debt collectors
- • Unauthorized bank withdrawals
Immediate Action Steps
1
Place Fraud AlertsContact one credit bureau to place a fraud alert. They'll notify the other two.
Experian
1-888-397-3742
Equifax
1-800-525-6285
TransUnion
1-800-680-7289
2
File Police ReportFile a report with your local police and get a copy. You'll need this for disputes.
- • Bring all evidence of fraud
- • Get the report number
- • Request multiple copies
- • Keep detailed records
3
Report to FTCFile a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov
What you'll get:
- • Personal recovery plan
- • Pre-filled dispute letters
- • Step-by-step guidance
- • Progress tracking tools
Prevention Strategies
Online Protection
- • Use strong, unique passwords
- • Enable two-factor authentication
- • Avoid public Wi-Fi for banking
- • Keep software updated
- • Be cautious with social media
- • Use secure websites (https://)
Offline Protection
- • Shred sensitive documents
- • Secure your mailbox
- • Don't carry SSN card
- • Monitor bank statements
- • Be wary of phone scams
- • Protect your wallet/purse
Recovery Process
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Close Compromised Accounts
Contact banks and creditors immediately to close fraudulent accounts.
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Dispute Fraudulent Items
Use dispute letters to remove fraudulent accounts from your credit reports.
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Monitor Your Credit
Check your credit reports regularly for new fraudulent activity.
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Consider Credit Freeze
Freeze your credit to prevent new accounts from being opened.
Emergency Contacts
FTC Identity Theft Hotline: 1-877-438-4338
Social Security Fraud: 1-800-269-0271
IRS Identity Theft: 1-800-908-4490