Report Fraud

Notify law enforcement

It is always recommended to file a report with the local authorities. Though their ability to help might be limited, you will want a police report for your own records.

In addition, we recommend that you contact the Federal Trade Commission. The FTC is tasked with managing and tracking a database of fraud-related incidents that is used by law enforcement agencies.

Notify your other financial institutions

When you’re a victim of fraud or identity theft, it is often difficult to pinpoint how much of your information is compromised. Letting your other financial institutions know about your problem will give them the opportunity to flag your account for extra security monitoring.

Place a fraud alert

Placing a fraud alert on your credit file allows creditors to obtain a copy of your credit report – but they must take certain steps to verify your identity. Fraud alerts may be effective at stopping someone from opening new credit accounts in your name; however, they may not prevent the misuse of your existing accounts. Contact one of the three credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your credit file:

Equifax                                                         
888-766-0008
Equifax.com/creditreportassistance

Experian
888-397-3742
Experian.com/fraud/center

TransUnion
800-680-7289
Transunion.com/fraud