What to Do After Experiencing Identity Theft

A Step-by-Step Guide for LA Healthcare FCU Members

Identity theft can be a devastating experience, but knowing the right steps to take can help you mitigate the damage and regain control. If you suspect that you’ve been a victim of identity theft, it’s crucial to act quickly and methodically. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this challenging situation:

1. Stay Calm and Gather Information
   Take a deep breath and gather all relevant information. This includes any suspicious emails, messages, or documents you received. Note down the date, time, and details of the suspicious activity. The more information you have, the easier it will be to resolve the issue.
2. Contact LAH FCU Immediately
   Our fraud team is here to assist you. Call us at (213) 748-4788. We can help freeze your accounts, monitor transactions, and guide you through the next steps.
3. Place a Fraud Alert on Your Credit Reports
   Contact one of the three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion—to place a fraud alert on your credit report. This alert makes it harder for identity thieves to open accounts in your name. You only need to contact one bureau; they will notify the others.
   Equifax: 1-888-766-0008
   Experian: 1-888-397-3742
   TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289
4. Obtain Your Credit Reports
   Request a free copy of your credit report from each of the three credit bureaus at government-mandated AnnualCreditReport.com. Review your reports carefully for any unauthorized accounts or activities. Dispute any inaccuracies with the respective credit bureau.
5. Report the Identity Theft to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
   Visit IdentityTheft.gov, the FTC’s dedicated site for identity theft recovery. Follow the steps to create a recovery plan, which includes filing a report and obtaining an Identity Theft Report. This report is essential for disputing fraudulent charges and accounts.
6. File a Police Report
   Take your FTC Identity Theft Report and any evidence you have to your local police department. Filing a police report can help with resolving disputes and may be necessary for certain claims with creditors and credit bureaus.
7. Contact Creditors and Financial Institutions
   Notify all creditors and financial institutions where fraudulent accounts or transactions occurred. Use the FTC Identity Theft Report to support your claims. Request that they close any fraudulent accounts and remove any unauthorized charges.
8. Change Your Passwords and Secure Your Accounts
   Update your online banking passwords and security questions. Use strong, unique passwords for all your accounts and consider enabling two-factor authentication for added security. Be cautious of any phishing attempts or suspicious emails.
9. Monitor Your Accounts and Credit Reports
   Keep a close eye on your accounts and credit reports for any further suspicious activity. Set up alerts for transactions and credit changes. Regular monitoring can help you detect and address new issues promptly.
10. Seek Support and Stay Informed
    Identity theft can be overwhelming, so don’t hesitate to seek support. Consider enrolling in identity theft protection services and stay informed about new scams and prevention strategies.
    At LA Healthcare FCU, we are committed to helping you protect your financial well-being. If you have any questions or need assistance, our dedicated fraud team is here for you. Don’t hesitate to reach out at (213) 748-4788 or visit our website for more information.
    Stay vigilant, stay informed, and take action to protect your identity and financial future. We’re here to support you every step of the way