What is Fraud Alert? |
By Charles Park on March 24, 2010
.jpg.aspx?width=75&height=75) If you have any suspicion of an outsider tampering with your credit, the first thing you can do is activate fraud alert. It should be treated as a preliminary step in response to fraudulent activity; other steps include credit freeze which is a stronger option that freezes credit access. Fraud alert is a flag that is attached to your credit report by credit bureaus. It warns anyone who checks your credit report that you were or may have been a victim of identity theft. In the event anyone wishes to extend you credit, they are encouraged but not obligated by law to verify the transaction with you via a phone call.
How do I activate Fraud Alert?
To activate fraud alert, contact the fraud department of the credit bureau and ask them to flag your account suspected of unauthorized access. A cell phone number is recommended as your primary contact to facilitate calls from your creditor.
Fraud alert can also be activated online through websites such as Experian and Equifax.
What happens when Fraud Alert is activated?
After fraud alert is activated, the flag should be placed within 24 hours. You should receive a confirmation by mail within a week or two. Your name will be removed from pre-approved credit and/or insurance offers for two years. Fraud alert will only remain in place for 90 days. If you have further need of the service, fraud alert needs to be reactivated.
Fraud Alert for minors
If you suspect that your child's credit is being tampered with, contact the credit bureau directly and report. You will need to supply them with your child's name, address, date of birth, a copy of your child's birth certificate, a copy of his or her social security card, a copy of your own identification, and a utility bill that verifies your address.
How do I deactivate Fraud Alert?
Either you can wait for it to expire in 90 days, or request for deactivation directly by mail sent to the credit bureau.
Source:
Nielson, Dave. "Fraud Alert: Learn How." Fight Identity Theft. Web. 10 Sep 2009. <http://www.fightidentitytheft.com/flag.html>.
See also, Freezing your Credit: The Emergency Stop Button
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