Symptoms
- Unfamiliar accounts or loans appear on your credit report
- Bills or collection notices for things you never purchased
- Denied credit for no clear reason
- IRS notice about a tax return you didn't file
Likely causes
- CommonPersonal information exposed in a data breachLeaked social security numbers or account details from breaches get reused by identity thieves.
- CommonPhishing or scam gave away sensitive informationA convincing scam call, text, or email may have tricked you into sharing identifying details.
- PossiblePhysical document theftStolen mail or a lost wallet can expose account and identity details.
What to do
- Order free credit reports from all three major bureaus and review them for accounts you don't recognize.
- Place a free credit freeze with each bureau to stop new accounts from being opened in your name.
- Report the theft at IdentityTheft.gov to get a personalized recovery plan and official report.
- Contact any company where a fraudulent account was opened to dispute and close it.
- Change passwords on your important financial and email accounts, using unique passwords for each.
- File a report with your local police department if needed for insurance or dispute purposes.
- Monitor your accounts and credit reports regularly for several months afterward.
When to call a pro
For complex cases involving significant financial loss or a stolen tax refund, consider consulting a consumer protection attorney or your bank's fraud specialist.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.