File an official Identity Theft Report with the Federal Trade Commission. This creates a legal record that you'll use with police, creditors, and credit bureaus. This is your most important first step.

File a report with your local police department. Bring your FTC report and any evidence of fraud. This creates an official criminal record that strengthens your case with creditors.

Get FREE credit reports from all three major bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion). This is the ONLY authorized source for free annual credit reports. Review for fraudulent accounts, unauthorized inquiries, and incorrect information.

Most victims don't know about this one! Innovis is a smaller credit bureau used by some lenders. Request your free report and place a security freeze.

Freeze your credit with all three major bureaus to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name. Freezing is FREE and you can lift it temporarily when needed.

Tracks your employment and salary history. Most employers use this to verify income. Thieves can use this data to open fraudulent loans in your name. Request your report and freeze it.

Background check agency used by major corporate employers. Check for fraudulent employment records.

Background checks for gig economy platforms (Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, Instacart). Thieves may create fraudulent driver accounts using your identity.

Corporate background check provider used by major employers. Check for incorrect employment verifications and criminal records.

The "credit bureau for checking accounts." Banks use this to decide if you can open a new account. If a thief opened fraudulent accounts in your name, they'll show up here.

Banking fraud detection network. Tracks bank account openings and fraud patterns. Major banks (Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Chase) use this.

Check verification service used by retailers. If someone wrote bad checks using your identity, it'll show up here.

Rental screening service tracking evictions, unpaid rent, and criminal records. Fraudulent evictions can make it impossible to rent an apartment.

Tenant screening service used by many landlords. Check for fraudulent rental applications.

Another major rental screening company. Tracks rental payment history and evictions.

Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange - tracks auto and home insurance claims. Fraudulent claims can increase your insurance rates or get you denied.

Tracks utility and phone bill payment history. Thieves may open utility accounts in your name.

Tracks return fraud at major retailers (Target, Home Depot, Best Buy). Excessive fraudulent returns in your name can get you banned from stores.