Protect your credit before something goes wrong.

Practical plan

Five steps you can take

1. Review your reports and accounts

   Look for accounts, inquiries, addresses, or balances you do not recognize. Review bank and card statements too.

2. Freeze your credit at all three bureaus

   A freeze can limit the opening of new accounts. You must manage it separately with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.

3. Consider a fraud alert

   If you suspect fraud, review the bureaus’ official options and requirements before choosing an alert.

4. Act quickly after identity theft

   Keep dates, confirmation numbers, letters, and screenshots. Use IdentityTheft.gov to create a personal recovery plan.

5. Maintain safer habits

   Use unique passwords, enable additional authentication, and avoid sending reports or identification numbers through insecure channels.

Optional monitoring may alert you to some changes, but it does not replace a freeze or prevent every instance of fraud.