Stop Ongoing Identity Theft
Close accounts which you know are being used for fraudulent purposes. These accounts may have been opened by the identity thief, or they may be your legitimate accounts which have been compromised. Cooperate with creditors to ensure that the accounts are not used for further unlawful purchases.
Make a Record
File a police report in your local jurisdiction and any jurisdictions where fraudulent accounts may have been opened or used. This may include state, county, or local police. Follow the police department's procedure to obtain copies of the police report. If you file the report over the phone, ask for a case number. Follow up and get a copy of the police report for your records.
Fill out fraud affidavits, if requested. Individual creditors may require you to fill out their forms to comply with their internal policies and procedures. Carefully read the affidavits and ensure they are accurate before you sign them. Request a copy for your records. Ask for a letter from the creditor stating that you are not responsible for the fraudulent
Notify government agencies. You can file your fraud affidavits with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) by visiting its website at www.ftc.gov.
This process may take some time, but stick with it. The paper trail you create now will protect you in the future.
Dispute False Collections and Credit Reports
You now have a strong record of identity theft. When you receive collection letters from bill collectors or other creditors, do not ignore them. Send a polite, professional letter disputing the validity of the accounts. Tell the companies that you are the victim of identity theft. Enclose copies of your police reports and fraud affidavits. Request verification of the bills, or in the alternative, a statement by the creditor that you are not responsible for the alleged debt. Always send your correspondence via certified mail, with a return receipt requested, and keep a copy of your signed, dated letter for your records.
Also write to the credit reporting agencies to dispute any false account information. Be specific about the nature of your dispute, and tell the credit reporting agencies that you are the victim of identity theft. In addition to police reports and fraud affidavits, send copies of any correspondence from creditors acknowledging that you do not owe the alleged debt.
