Recovery
After reporting fraud, take additional steps to protect yourself and recover.
Credit Protection
A fraud alert tells lenders to verify your identity before opening new credit. A credit freeze blocks lenders from accessing your credit report until you lift the freeze. Credit monitoring services can alert you to new accounts or changes.
- Fraud Alert: A free note on your credit file that warns creditors to take extra steps to verify your identity.
- Credit Freeze: Restricts access to your credit report. You can lift the freeze temporarily when you apply for credit.
- Credit Monitoring: Paid or free services that notify you when there are changes to your credit file.
Emotional Impact
Being a victim of fraud can be stressful and upsetting. It’s normal to feel angry, anxious, or embarrassed. Reach out to trusted friends, family, or support professionals to talk through your experience. Remember that many people have gone through this and recovery is possible.