Identity Theft on Your Credit Report: The Fast Track

Identity-theft errors use a different process from an ordinary accuracy dispute. An IdentityTheft.gov report and bureau block request can matter.

Create an official recovery plan

Report identity theft at IdentityTheft.gov. The site creates an Identity Theft Report and recovery steps. Keep the report number and copies of supporting records.

Freeze all three files

A security freeze limits new creditors from accessing your reports. Freeze separately with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Freezes are free and do not affect your score.

Request a block

The Fair Credit Reporting Act has a process for blocking information resulting from identity theft when you provide required documents, including proof of identity and an identity-theft report. This is not the same as sending a vague dispute.

Cover the rest

Change compromised passwords, contact affected creditors, review bank activity, consider a fraud alert, and keep a dated log. A freeze stops many new-account attempts but not misuse of existing accounts.