How IdentityTheft.gov Helps You Report and Recover From Identity Theft (FTC Video Guide)

An unfamiliar charge, a bill for something you never bought, or a debt collector calling about an account that isn’t yours. These can be signs of identity theft. The good news is there is a free, official place to report it and get a step-by-step plan. This FTC video explains how IdentityTheft.gov works.

From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) · Part of our Online Safety Video Library

What the video shows

The video lists common early signs: an unfamiliar charge on a credit card, a business refusing your check, or a debt collector calling about a bill that isn’t yours. It reassures viewers that identity theft can happen to anyone.

It then explains that IdentityTheft.gov helps you create an official identity theft report by filing with the FTC, guides you through each recovery step, generates the letters and forms you need, and helps you track your progress.

Key takeaways

• IdentityTheft.gov is the federal government’s free site for reporting and recovering from identity theft.
• An Identity Theft Report helps prove to businesses that someone else used your information.
• The site builds a personal recovery plan based on what happened to you.
• It can fill in the letters you send to businesses and credit bureaus.
• You never have to pay anyone to file this report.

Your first steps if you suspect identity theft

1. Call the companies where fraud occurred. Ask them to close or freeze the accounts and change your passwords.
2. Report it at IdentityTheft.gov to get your Identity Theft Report and recovery plan.
3. Freeze your credit at Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion, or place a fraud alert.
4. Check your credit reports free at AnnualCreditReport.com and dispute anything you don’t recognize.
5. Keep records of who you talked to, when, and what they said. The site can help you track this.

Signs to watch for

• Bills, statements, or collection calls for accounts you didn’t open
• Charges or withdrawals you don’t recognize
• Missing mail or bills you normally receive
• A notice that more than one tax return was filed in your name
• Being denied credit unexpectedly, or a sudden drop in your credit score

Common questions

Do I need to file a police report too?

For most people, the FTC Identity Theft Report is enough. Some situations, or some businesses, may ask for a police report as well; your recovery plan will tell you.

What if my child’s identity was stolen?

IdentityTheft.gov covers child identity theft too. Freezing a child’s credit is free and can prevent it. See How to Freeze a Child’s Credit.

Someone is offering to fix my identity theft for a fee. Do I need them?

No. Everything on IdentityTheft.gov is free, and you can do it yourself.

Related guides

• Credit Freeze Review
• How to Freeze a Child’s Credit
• What to Do After a Data Breach
• Data Broker Removal Services Reviewed

About this video

This video was produced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), a U.S. government agency, and plays from the agency’s own channel. Juggling Chaos wrote this summary and guide; we are not affiliated with or endorsed by the agency. Some details on screen, such as phone models or web addresses, may look dated, but the advice still applies. Checked October 7, 2026.

Start a report anytime at IdentityTheft.gov.