Resources for Identity Theft and Fraud Victims
Sometimes, regardless of how well prepared we are, we can fall victim to the tricks of scammers and identity thieves. In these times, it's easy to become overwhelmed, and you may not be sure of the best way to start informing the proper financial authorities. If you feel you have become a victim of financial crime or identity theft, the resources below will help you get started getting your life back on track.
Telemarketing and Check Fraud
In the event that you exchange financial information with a telemarketer and fraudulent charges appear on your phone bill or credit card balance, or if you unknowingly participate in a fraudulent check scam, report the incident to the National Fraud Information Center using the NFIC incident report form, or by calling 1-800-876-7060.
NFIC will evaluate your claim and pass on information regarding the incident to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), your state attorney general, and your local consumer protection program.
Cell Phone Fraud
If you find evidence that your cellular phone bill has received fraudulent charges, or if you are receiving billing statements for accounts you have not activated, contact your wireless phone service provider. In the event your provider has difficulty resolving the issue, contact the Better Business Bureau of the United States.
Identity Theft
The key to recovering from identity theft is to act as quickly as possible. If you've lost your purse or wallet, have discovered fraudulent charges on any of your financial accounts, or have any reason to suspect that you may be the victim of identity theft, immediately begin keeping record of all your financial transactions and contacts with agencies regarding the situation.
As soon as possible, contact one of the three major credit agencies using their fraud alert reporting line. Once contacted, your fraud alert will be distributed to the remaining agencies. Specific contact information and additional instructions can be viewed online at TransUnion.com, Experian.com, or Equifax.com.
After alerting the credit bureaus, contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to file an official identity theft complaint. Complaints can be completed using the FTC Complaint Assistant form available here. Once submitted, print your official complaint and cover letter.
Finally, contact your local law enforcement to file an official police report regarding the identity theft, and ask them to include your FTC ID theft complaint form with the report. Once you've received a copy of your report, keep the identification number ready. Be prepared to explain your situation and offer the police report ID number as you contact banks, credit card providers, and other financial institutions to cancel all the accounts you feel may have been compromised.
If you have additional concerns regarding what steps to take to recover from fraud or identity theft, we're here to help. Consider the additional resources available in our Online Identity Theft section. We hope you're able to find the help that you need.
