Understanding Identity Theft

• What is identity theft?
• How can someone steal my identity?
• What are the consequences of identity theft?
• What is "pretexting" and how does it relate to identity theft?
• How long can identity theft problems go on?
• How can I tell if I'm a victim of identity theft?
• Are there any other steps I can take to make sure I'm not an identity theft victim?

Filing a Complaint with the FTC

• What does the FTC do to help victims of identity theft?
• What is the FTC doing to reduce identity theft?
• What does the FTC do about other types of fraud?
• Why should I file a complaint with the FTC?
• How does the FTC use the information I provide?
• Can I submit my complaint anonymously?
• Will an investigation be opened if I file a complaint?
• What documents do I need to file with my complaint?
• What should I do if I've filed a complaint, but get additional information or have additional problems?

Identity Theft Laws

• How do I cope with identity theft?
• What are the first steps I should take if I'm a victim of identity theft?
• What should I look for on a credit report to indicate identity theft?
• How can I get copies of my credit reports?
• How much does a credit report cost?  
• How do I prove that I'm an identity theft victim?
• What are fraud alerts and victim statements?
• Are fraud alerts and victim statements always effective?
• What should I do if the local police will not take a report from me?
• What do I do if someone has tampered with my existing accounts?
• What should I do about unauthorized charges on my credit cards?
• What do I do if someone is using my checks?
• How do I get back money that was stolen from my debit card account or through other electronic fund transfers?
• What do I do if my bank won't correct the fraud?
• What do I do if someone has opened new credit accounts in my name?
• How do I find contact information for a company that has opened fraudulent accounts?
• How do I correct inaccurate information on my credit reports?
• How do I stop debt collectors from contacting me?
• What do I do if someone has filed for bankruptcy in my name?
• What do I do about criminal records made in my name?
• What do I do if the identity thief has gotten a driver's license in my name?
• What do I do about investment transactions made in my name?
• What do I do about stolen mail or fraudulent changes of address?
• What do I do if my passport is lost or stolen?
• What do I do if the thief has obtained phone service in my name?
• What do I do if the thief has used my identity to take out a student loan?
• What do I do if the thief is using my identity to file tax returns?
• When should I contact the Social Security Administration?
• Should I apply for a new Social Security number?
• Should I use a credit monitoring service?
• Should I buy identity theft insurance?
• Can a credit repair company clear up my record for me?
• What should I do if I've done everything you've advised, and I am still having problems?