Identity Theft: What to Do Now

TL;DR

If someone steals your identity, act fast! Report it to the police and relevant organisations like Action Fraud. Check your credit reports, place a fraud alert, and consider a credit freeze. Change passwords and monitor your accounts closely.

1. Immediate Actions (First 24-48 Hours)

1. Report to the Police: File a police report. This is crucial for documentation and potential investigations. Get a crime reference number.
2. Contact Action Fraud: Report the incident online or by phone at 0300 123 2040. They’ll log the details and provide guidance. Action Fraud Website
3. Notify Your Bank(s): Immediately contact your bank(s) to report any fraudulent transactions or suspicious activity on your accounts. Request new cards.

2. Check Your Credit Reports

You’re entitled to check your credit reports for free. This helps identify any unauthorised accounts opened in your name.

1. Experian: Experian Website
2. Equifax: Equifax Website
3. TransUnion: TransUnion Website
4. Review Carefully: Look for unfamiliar accounts, addresses, or contact details. Dispute any inaccuracies immediately with the credit reference agency.

3. Place a Fraud Alert

A fraud alert warns lenders to verify your identity before opening new accounts.

1. Contact One Agency: You only need to contact one of the three credit reference agencies (Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion) to place a fraud alert. They’ll notify the others.
2. Alert Duration: Alerts typically last for six months but can be renewed.

4. Consider a Credit Freeze

A credit freeze (also called a ‘credit block’) restricts access to your credit report, making it harder for identity thieves to open new accounts.

1. Contact Each Agency: You need to contact each of the three agencies individually to place a freeze.
2. Unfreezing: You can temporarily lift the freeze if you need to apply for credit yourself.

5. Secure Your Accounts

Change passwords and enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.

1. Strong Passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts. A password manager can help.
2. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Enable 2FA on important accounts like email, banking, and social media. This adds an extra layer of security.
3. Email Security: Be cautious of phishing emails. Never click links or provide personal information in response to suspicious requests.

6. Monitor Your Accounts Regularly

Keep a close eye on your bank statements, credit card bills, and credit reports for any unusual activity.

1. Bank Statements: Review your online banking transactions daily or weekly.
2. Credit Card Bills: Check your monthly statements carefully.
3. Credit Reports: Continue to monitor your credit reports regularly, even after placing a fraud alert or freeze.

7. HMRC (If Affected)

If you suspect someone has used your identity for tax fraud, contact HM Revenue & Customs immediately.

1. Contact HMRC: Report the incident to HMRC’s cyber security team.