10 Steps to Recover from Identity Theft
Discovering your identity has been stolen is terrifying. This step-by-step guide walks you through exactly what to do in the first 72 hours after a breach.
1Step 1: Stay Calm and Act Quickly
Discovering your identity has been stolen is a deeply unsettling experience, but panic will slow you down. The first 72 hours are critical — the faster you act, the more damage you can prevent. Document every action you take with dates and times.
2Step 2: Freeze Your Credit Immediately
Contact all three major credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — and place a credit freeze on your file. This is free and prevents anyone from opening new credit accounts in your name. A credit freeze does not affect your existing accounts or credit score.
3Step 3: Report to the FTC
File a report at IdentityTheft.gov, the FTC's official identity theft resource. This creates an official record and generates a personalized recovery plan. The site will walk you through specific steps based on what type of identity theft occurred.
4Step 4: File a Police Report
Visit your local police department and file a report. Bring your FTC Identity Theft Report, a government-issued ID, proof of address, and any evidence of the theft. A police report adds an additional layer of official documentation.
5Step 5: Secure Your Accounts
Change passwords on all your online accounts, starting with email, banking, and social media. Use strong, unique passwords for each account and enable two-factor authentication everywhere possible. Consider using a password manager.
Written by
Lisa Fernandez
Lisa Fernandez is a consumer protection attorney and identity theft recovery specialist who has helped hundreds of victims reclaim their identities.
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