Identity theft can devastate your finances and credit. Learn how to protect yourself, recover from theft, and hold responsible parties accountable.
Expert information to help you understand your rights and options
Identity thieves steal personal information to open accounts, file fraudulent tax returns, and commit crimes in your name. Recovery takes months and requires organized action. Learn how identity theft happens, immediate steps to take, long-term monitoring, and legal remedies available to victims.
Federal and state laws give identity theft victims powerful rights—including fraud alerts, credit freezes, and the ability to sue companies that fail to protect your information. Learn about FCRA, state identity theft laws, compensation available, and when to pursue legal action.
Credit freezes prevent new accounts from being opened in your name, while monitoring services alert you to suspicious activity. Freezes are now free by law. Learn how to freeze your credit at all three bureaus, when to use fraud alerts instead, and evaluating monitoring services.
Acting quickly after identity theft limits damage and starts your recovery. You need to contact credit bureaus, file police reports, and dispute fraudulent accounts systematically. Follow this comprehensive checklist covering the first 24 hours through complete recovery.