Filing a fraud alert will help stop identity thieves from opening any accounts in your name. The alert will show on your credit report, and businesses issuing credit are required to obtain proof of identity anytime they encounter this alert.
To file a fraud alert, call one of the three credit bureaus and tell them you would like to file a fraud alert. The credit bureaus will not charge you to file a fraud alert. The bureau that you call is required to contact the other two bureaus. The alert lasts for 90 days. If you wish to extend the alert, you will need to call again after 90 days. If you are an EverSafe Member, EverSafe will send you an alert reminding you to refile the fraud alert.
Contact one of the following credit bureaus:
Equifax – https://www.equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services/ – 800-525-6285
Experian –https://www.experian.com/fraud/center.html – 888-397-3742
TransUnion – https://www.transunion.com/fraud-alerts – 800-680-7289
1 – Ask it to put a fraud alert on your credit report.
2 – The credit bureau you contact will then contact the other two credit bureaus. Placing a fraud alert is free.
3 – Be sure the credit bureaus have your current contact information so they can get in touch with you.
4 – The credit bureau will explain that you can get a free credit report and other rights you have. EverSafe Plus and Gold Plans provide a credit report.
5 – Mark your calendar. The fraud alert stays on your report for one year. You can get a new one after one year.