Resolving Identity Theft
Being careful doesn't always assure you that identity theft will not happen. It can happen to anyone. But how do you know if it happens to you? Even if you're not completely sure that identity theft has occurred, and you suspect that you've been a victim, there are some steps you should take immediately. It is very important to act upon so you can fix the situation before it impacts your credit score in a negative way. Look at these steps and choose each in the right order.
It's important to review your credit reports and lookout for all suspicious activities and accounts. Make sure to report anything fraudulent to the three credit bureaus and any other companies involved. It's also very important to keep written records of the entire process, including names and titles of people you spoke with at each company, and the dates you talked to them. You should also keep any documents they might send. All of this can help you prove the actions you took to correct the problem.
Being careful doesn't always assure you that identity theft will not happen. It can happen to anyone. But how do you know if it happens to you? Even if you're not completely sure that identity theft has occurred, and you suspect that you've been a victim, there are some steps you should take immediately. It is very important to act upon so you can fix the situation before it impacts your credit score in a negative way. Look at these steps and choose each in the right order.
- Contact the company that reported the suspicious charge.
- Call a credit bureau and place an initial fraud alert.
- Order your credit report.
- Report the identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission.
- Monitor your accounts and credit report.
It's important to review your credit reports and lookout for all suspicious activities and accounts. Make sure to report anything fraudulent to the three credit bureaus and any other companies involved. It's also very important to keep written records of the entire process, including names and titles of people you spoke with at each company, and the dates you talked to them. You should also keep any documents they might send. All of this can help you prove the actions you took to correct the problem.