If You Think You're a Victim of Identity Theft
Here are your next steps:
- Contact the fraud departments of each of the three major credit bureaus (listed below) and request:
- A fraud alert be placed on your file.
- No new credit can be granted without your approval.
Equifax: www.equifax.com
To report fraud, call: (800) 525-6285 or write: P.O. Box 740241, Atlanta, GA 30374-0241
Experian: www.experian.com
To report fraud, call: (888) EXPERIAN (397-3742) or write: P.O. Box 9532, Allen, TX 75013
Trans Union: www.transunion.com
To report fraud, call: (800) 680-7289 or write: Fraud Victim Assistance Division, P.O. Box 6790, Fullerton, CA 92834
- Close any accounts that have been fraudulently accessed or opened.
- File a local police report and get a copy of the report to your bank, credit card company or others that may need proof of the crime.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is the federal clearinghouse for complaints by victims of identity theft. Although the FTC does not have the authority to bring criminal cases, it can assist victims. You can file a complaint with the FTC by visiting their website or calling toll-free (877) ID-THEFT (438-4338).