Stolen Identity: How to Rebuild and Move Forward

by Nathan Barnes Content Writer

It’s a scary thought to imagine someone else taking your identity and using your personal information for their own gain. However, this is a reality for many people every year. Identity theft is a big problem, and it can be challenging for those affected by it to learn how to rebuild their lives and continue to move forward.

Many people believe that the best way to avoid identity theft is to be cautious about giving out personal information. While this is true, there are understandable exceptions and specific instances where your personal information is necessary.

For example, you don’t have to be suspicious about why car insurance companies ask for your personal information. You might be hesitant to wonder “do you have to give out your Social Security number to them?” However, they simply use this information to determine important factors about you before deciding on your insurance coverage.

On the other hand, it would be foolish to do something such as enter to win a prize somewhere by giving them your personal information. A source that is not well known and trustworthy should never be on the receiving end of your Social Security number, your credit card information, or any other telling details about your identity.

No matter how careful you are, a stolen identity can still happen to anyone. If you are someone who has fallen victim to this predatory process, here’s how you can begin to move forward and build a new life.

How to Know Your Identity Has Been Stolen

There are a few ways to determine if you are a victim of an identity thief. The first thing to look out for is a change to your bills. If you notice you are no longer receiving bills once mailed to your home, you need to check the home address on your accounts immediately. Someone who has taken your identity may change your address to access your accounts.

The other common sign that someone has taken your identity is your financial accounts. This can span through bank accounts and your credit cards. Thieves may withdraw money from your account or rack up credit card charges until your bill becomes massive.

They may also do things such as take out loans in your name, leading to receiving bills for items you never actually purchased. This can quickly create a large amount of debt in your name.

If you determine that someone has stolen your identity, you can take steps to stop the thief and work toward getting your life back on track.

How to Recover from a Stolen Identity

The first fact to be aware of is that there is no specific timeline on identity theft recovery. Some people may recover in a matter of weeks, while for others, it may take several years. If the process takes longer than expected, it’s important to be patient.

Place a Fraud Alert and Freeze Accounts

The first step to take once you have determined identity theft has happened is to freeze all your accounts and put a fraud alert in place. This not only stops the thief or thieves from continuing to use the funds they already have access to, but it also creates a much stronger barrier of protection around new accounts you may open up.

All information using your personal information will require direct verification, meaning nothing will happen without you knowing. Typically a fraud alert will last a year, but you can opt for a more extended length of time if you choose.

Report Your Stolen Identity

Filing a claim with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is an essential factor when dealing with a stolen identity. You can choose to use their website, IdentityTheft.gov, and report your stolen identity or call them at 877-438-4338. They offer plans and assistance for victims of identity theft.

The report you file will also double as proof of your situation. This is helpful when you begin taking the next steps in recovering and rebuilding your identity. You will want to keep copies of your report to give to your credit reporting agencies and the police.

Reach Out to Credit Reporters and Companies

Get a copy of your credit report from all three credit reporting agencies — Experian, Equifax, and Transunion. This allows you to comb through your accounts and note any fraudulent charges or unauthorized accounts on your credit.

You can send a letter to each of the three agencies about your situation and the false marks on your credit. They can then remove the information, so you are not contacted to pay debts you did not incur.

You will also need to contact your utility companies and your phone service company. Identity thieves may attempt to use your bills from these companies as proof to open more accounts in your name. Explain your situation to them and have your accounts closed and reopen new ones thieves can’t access.

File a Police Report

Using your report from the FTC, you can also file a report with your local police department. You may want to file reports with departments where the fraudulent activity took place as well. A police report puts authorities on high alert and can help catch the person or people responsible for stealing your identity.

Filing a police report isn’t a requirement, but it can be helpful. You can speak to law enforcement and keep in close contact while the investigation goes on. You also have a quick contact if you notice any further fraudulent activity.

Change Passwords and Replace Your Stolen Information

Make sure to change all passwords to your accounts. Use passwords that are not easily guessed, and don’t store them somewhere, such as your electronic devices. This will protect your information from further theft.

If any of your personal information is missing or stolen, such as your Social Security card or state ID, replace them and inform the office responsible for providing them about what is going on. This can put a flag on your personal information when used and help catch the person or persons responsible.

Rebuilding Life After a Stolen Identity

No matter how careful you may be, a stolen identity can happen to anyone. It can be a terrifying and overwhelming experience filled with frustration, confusion, and even anger. These are all understandable feelings since identity theft is no small matter.

Getting your identity stolen may seem like a life sentence of picking up the pieces and learning to rebuild. Though identity theft may seem impossible to overcome, the steps listed here can help fast-track you to regaining your identity and moving forward.

Alexandra Arcand writes and researches for the auto insurance comparison site, AutoInsurance.org. She enjoys helping people learn how to rebuild their lives after events such as identity theft.