A Fraud Alert
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When you place one of these on your credit report, businesses will have to verify your identity before issuing new credit accounts. Also, on existing accounts, the same verification will need to be passed before replacement cards can be sent or new services offered. To verify your identity, businesses place an outbound telephone call to the phone number listed in the fraud alert on your credit bureau report. Make sure to keep your telephone number current. Your request may be delayed if the business can't reach you at that number.
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Two Types of Alerts
The first type of alert is an initial alert. An initial alert is placed on your credit file if you suspect that your identity is stolen but don't have direct proof. When you place an initial alert on your credit file, it remains there for 90 days. During that period, you're entitled to a free credit report, without a credit card, from each of the three credit bureaus.
The second type of alert is an extended alert. Unlike an initial alert, an extended alert is applied to your credit file when you're a confirmed victim of identity theft. It remains on your credit file for up to seven years. During the first 12 months of an extended alert, you receive two free copies of your credit report from each of the three credit bureaus. One extra benefit of an extended alert is that you're information is removed from pre-approved marketing lists for 5 years.
How do I add an alert to my credit report?
To add a fraud alert to your credit report you'll need the following:
- Name
- Address
- Social Security Number
- Identity Theft Report (Only required for an extended alert)
- Any other information requested by the credit bureau
You may contact any of the three credit bureaus to place the alert. The credit bureau you report it to is required to contact the other two. Find their contact information below.
| Equifax 1-800-525-6285 | Experian 1-888-397-3742 |
| TransUnion 1-800-680-7289 | |
To remove an alert from your credit file, you'll need to mail proof of your identity along with a copy of your identity theft report. Keep in mind, there are 5 forms of identity theft and I've only covered credit identity theft on this website. The
Federal Trade Commission
has information concerning all 5 types. All instances of identity theft require an alert. Keep their website handy in case you need it in the future.
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