5. Obtaining a identity theft report

An identity theft report isn't the same as a police report. To get an identity theft report, you must bring a copy of your completed FTC ID Theft Complaint Form to the police station and ask the officer to attach the complaint. Ask for a copy of this combined report, which you will need to dispute the fraudulent activity of the identity thief.

Filing an identity theft report will also ensure that the fraudulent activity doesn't show up on your permanent credit report. The FTC offers an in-depth guide to completing the process.