In this piece, I report on how to REPAIR the problem IF your identity is stolen. Thieves are becoming ever more sophisticated at their crime than ever before. As a Denver Front Range realtor, I know EXACTLY how heartbreaking it is for clients when identity theft or otherwise damaged credit hinders them in buying a new house. Here's what you can do if you're affected. Best of luck! - Jim Holmes
How to Repair Identity Theft
1) Quickly Place a Fraud Alert with the Credit Reporting Companies.
The first company will then supply the info to the others. There is no cost for the fraud alert, but you must offer proof of identity. This report lasts for 90 days then must be renewed. Be sure and provide the company with your current contact info.
2) Get Copies of Your Credit Report
This is vital in determining how much damage you've suffered. The first report is free of charge. Then immediately reach out to the businesses that have been affected by the theft and begin a dialogue with their fraud department.
3) Create an Identity Theft Report
This will ultimately initiate an extended fraud alert on your credit report. Write all of the details of the identity theft in the report. This then becomes your identity theft affidavit. Provide this report to your local police and file a complaint with them. Keep a copy of the police report and submit your Identity Theft Affidavit and the police report to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission here.
Monitor the Process Closely
Resolving identity theft can be quite cumbersome. Stay organized and build a system to track all of your correspondence, documentation, and phone calls. Keep everything and document everything!
The advice here encompasses only the first steps to undergo when attempting to repair identity theft in Denver, Colorado. Be sure and read through the websites linked here for further information and steps.
