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Public Knowledge Center > Credit Reports |
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Fraud Victim Statements 
An additional precaution for fraud victims
If you are a confirmed victim of fraud, in addition to a fraud alert, you also have the opportunity to include a statement, up to 100 words, in your credit file to alert potential credit grantors that something is wrong. If you choose to place a fraud alert on your credit file, you should also consider including a fraud victim statement with specific instructions.
An example 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 your appropriate contact numbers, and be certain to provide more than one)."
If the name or alias, address, or any other information regarding the person(s) using your identity or information is known, 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 this person (or address or other known information)".
As with a fraud alert, even a fraud victim statement is not an absolute guarantee that no new accounts will be opened in your name, but its presence in your credit file can certainly help you in the event that you need to dispute fraudulent activity.
©Copyright 2008 by Michael Barnett. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, copying, or distribution is prohibited.
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