#4 – CLOSE UNAUTHORIZED ACCOUNTS

Contact the financial institution behind an unauthorized account to get more details. If it turns out that a thief has used your identity to take out a loan or apply for a credit card, explain the fraud to the lender or creditor. Ask them to close the account and remove it from your credit report. The institution might require documentation, such as an ID Theft Complaint or copy of a police report before closing the account. Follow up your request to them in writing (via certified mail, return receipt requested), and keep a copy for your records. Ask to file an identity theft complaint with their fraud department as well.