Your Identity Was Just Stolen — Here’s How to Reclaim It Fast

November 19, 2025

By Michelle Hacker
Digital Services Officer

Finding out your identity has been stolen is stressful—but acting quickly can limit the damage. Follow these simple steps to take control:

1. Alert the Credit Bureaus

Place a fraud alert or credit freeze to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name. Each bureau has its own process, so check which option fits your situation best.

2. Check Your Credit Reports

Get free reports from all three credit bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com. Look for:

Accounts or inquiries you don’t recognize
Collections or balances you didn’t authorize
Wrong addresses or employers

Document everything, it will help you later.

3. File an FTC Identity Theft Report

Go to IdentityTheft.gov to file a report. You’ll get:

A recovery plan tailored to your situation
Prefilled letters for creditors and credit bureaus

This report is key for disputing fraudulent accounts.

4. Contact Collection Agencies

Send a written dispute to any collection agency claiming a fraudulent account. Include your FTC report and request written confirmation that the account will be removed.

5. File a Police Report

Filing a local report adds an extra layer of documentation. Include your FTC report and any collection notices. This can help when lenders or bureaus require proof of the fraud.

6. Dispute Fraudulent Accounts

Submit disputes to credit bureaus and collection agencies. Under law, they must investigate within 30 days. If the agency continues to pursue the debt, request verification and pause all collection efforts until confirmed.

7. Update Your Passwords

Change usernames and passwords for all financial accounts to prevent further unauthorized access.

Tip: Staying organized and acting fast is key. Keep records of every step, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if needed.

Recovering from identity theft is a marathon, not a sprint, but by following these seven crucial steps you are building a strong legal defense. Staying organized and acting fast is the key to minimizing long-term damage. Remember to document every phone call, letter, and dispute you file. You've taken action to secure your identity, and with persistence and these official resources, you will successfully navigate the recovery process.

About the Author

Michelle Hacker

Michelle Hacker is the Digital Services Officer at Security National Bank, overseeing all personal and business digital platforms for customers. She is a graduate of Iowa State University and has nearly a decade of experience in the technology and financial service field.