How do fraud alerts and identity theft relate to a dispute?

A

How do fraud alerts and identity theft relate to a dispute?

CC-028 — How do fraud alerts and identity theft relate to a dispute?

Category: Disputes & Record Updates

You have the right to ask nationwide consumer reporting companies (Credit Bureaus) to place a fraud alert in your file if you believe you are, or may become, a victim of identity theft.

A fraud alert requires creditors to take additional identity-verification steps, making it harder for someone to obtain credit in your name. These checks may also delay your own credit applications.

Contact just one of the three nationwide credit bureaus to request a fraud alert. That bureau must notify the other two so they can also place alerts:

An initial fraud alert lasts at least one year, unless you request its removal sooner. An extended fraud alert lasts seven years and requires an identity theft report.

The bureau will require appropriate proof of identity, which may include your Social Security number. If your identity has been stolen, visit IdentityTheft.gov to report it, obtain an FTC Identity Theft Report, and receive recovery instructions. Follow the bureau’s requirements for submitting that report and any additional documentation.

Placing a fraud alert does not correct inaccurate information. Submit a separate dispute to each bureau reporting the mistake.

For additional information, visit consumerfinance.gov/learnmore.

Support reference: CC-028

Permalink