Who: The FTC runs IdentityTheft.gov for reporting and recovery.
When to use: Use when someone used your identity to open accounts or commit fraud.
What to prepare:
- What was used
- When you noticed
- Accounts affected
Category: Identity & benefits
Identity theft
Most reportedImportant
Act quickly. Place a fraud alert or credit freeze, and use IdentityTheft.gov for a step-by-step recovery plan.
How it often plays out
When Sandra tries to file her taxes, she’s told someone already filed using her Social Security number and claimed a refund. A thief had used her stolen identity. She discovers new credit cards and accounts she never opened. Identity thieves use leaked or stolen personal data to file taxes, open accounts, or take loans in someone else’s name. Other forms include synthetic identity theft (mix of real and fake data), medical or employment identity theft, child identity theft, and account takeover of bank, credit, or retirement accounts. Thieves use leaked or stolen data from breaches, phishing, or malware; the damage can take years to undo. Reporting quickly and placing fraud alerts or freezes helps limit the harm.
By the numbers
- Identity theft affects millions of Americans each year; reporting early helps limit damage.
- Data breaches and phishing are common ways thieves get the information they need.
How to spot it
- Bills or accounts you never opened, or medical/employment records that are not yours.
- Unexpected password resets or lockouts on your bank or retirement accounts.
- Credit report entries for accounts or addresses you do not recognize.
Do's and don'ts
Do
- Go to IdentityTheft.gov for a step-by-step recovery plan.
- Place fraud alerts or freezes with the credit bureaus.
- Close any accounts you did not open and report to the FTC and other agencies as directed.
Don't
- Ignore bills or accounts you do not recognize.
- Delay placing a fraud alert or freeze.
- Assume one strange charge or letter is a mistake; check your credit report.
Summary & what to do
Someone uses your personal information to open accounts, file taxes, get medical care, or commit fraud. This includes synthetic identity theft, medical/employment/child identity theft, and account takeover. Report it and take steps to limit damage and restore your identity.
What to do right now
- Go to IdentityTheft.gov to get a step-by-step recovery plan and report to the FTC.
- Place fraud alerts or freezes with the credit bureaus and close any accounts you did not open.
- Report to the FTC and, if applicable, to the IRS or other agencies as directed.
Where to report
Who: The FTC ReportFraud also accepts identity theft reports.
When to use: Use to report the scam or fraud that led to identity theft.
What to prepare:
- What happened
- Dates
- Any evidence
FTC ReportFraud~5 min
Frequently asked questions
- What is the first step if I think my identity was stolen?
- Go to IdentityTheft.gov. You can report and get a personalized recovery plan. Place a fraud alert or freeze with the credit bureaus and close any accounts you did not open.
- Should I place a fraud alert or a credit freeze?
- A fraud alert notifies creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts. A freeze blocks access to your credit report so new accounts cannot be opened. Both are free. IdentityTheft.gov explains how to do each.