Initial fraud alert. What it does: An initial fraud alert tells businesses to check with you before opening a new account in your name. Usually, that means contacting you first to make sure the person trying to open a new account is really you. Unlike a credit freeze, a fraud alert doesn’t prevent businesses from seeing your credit report ...

Feb 3, 2022 · Fraud alerts. A fraud alert doesn’t limit access to your credit report, but tells businesses to check with you before opening a new account in your name. Usually, that means calling you first to make sure the person trying to open a new account is really you. Place a fraud alert by contacting any one of the three national credit bureaus. That ...

Jan 23, 2025 · Also review your credit card bills and bank account statements and look for transactions you didn’t make. And consider taking other steps to protect your identity, like freezing your credit or putting a fraud alert on your credit report. If you think someone stole your identity, report it, and get a personal recovery plan at IdentityTheft.gov.

Jun 3, 2020 · Free credit freezes and year-long fraud alerts are here, starting September 21 st, thanks to a new federal law. Here’s what you should know: Here’s what you should know: Pagination

Dec 30, 2024 · The FTC has free materials and information on hundreds of different scams both in print and online. Here are a few ideas to help you become a fraud fighter. Learn more about what scammers say and do. Start at consumer.ftc.gov where you’ll find articles, consumer alerts, and advice to help you spot and avoid scams.

Report Fraud; Read Consumer Alerts; Get Consumer Alerts ... Scam alert: QR code on an unexpected package ...

Jan 23, 2025 · The official website of the Federal Trade Commission, protecting America’s consumers for over 100 years.

Feb 13, 2020 · With a fraud alert, you keep access to your credit. But freezes are generally best for people who aren’t planning to take out new credit. Often, that includes older adults, people under guardianship, and children. To place a fraud alert or credit freeze, use the credit bureau contact information listed below.

Feb 4, 2022 · The first step in avoiding identity theft, or stopping the damage, is placing a fraud alert on your credit report. This makes it harder for a thief to open new credit in your name, and lets you get free copies of your credit report from each of the three credit bureaus. Next, read through your reports and note any accounts or transactions that ...

With scammers targeting our entire life savings with their schemes, we all need to be alert and know how to detect their latest tricks. Something as simple as talking about scams you know about is a great way to help you and your community stay protected. And being part of this solution doesn’t require training or a lot of time!