Fraud victim statements

If you are a confirmed victim of identity theft or fraud, in addition to an extended fraud alert, you also have the opportunity to include a fraud victim statement, up to 100 words, in your credit file to alert potential credit grantors that something is wrong. If you choose to place an extended fraud alert on your credit file, you should also consider including such a fraud victim statement with specific instructions.

Example language of a fraud victim statement:

"I am a victim of identity theft. Someone unknown to me is using my name and information and may attempt to access my accounts or open new unauthorized and fraudulent accounts. DO NOT extend credit in my name without first verifying all applications with me personally. I may be reached at ---------------------- (include appropriate contact numbers, and be certain to provide more than one)."

If you know the address or any other information regarding the person(s) using your identity or information, you might also consider including additional language such as:

"Do not to accept any applications or transaction requests from, or that include: ------------------------------------ (provide the applicable information) and notify me immediately if you receive any applications or transaction requests from ------------------------------ (person, address, or other known information)."

Tip:  As is the case with a fraud alert, a fraud victim statement is also not an absolute guarantee that no new credit accounts will be opened in your name, but the statement’s presence in your credit file can certainly assist in the event that you later need to dispute any additional fraudulent activity that may occur while the statement is in included in your credit file.