Identity theft can be difficult to report if unproven. While there is no formal federal record keeping system for identity theft, the Federal Trade Commission, in tandem with local law enforcement agencies, keep records of identity theft complaints.
Federal Trade Commission Complaints
When a consumer feels they have been the victim of identity theft, they are asked to file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). This report should include documentation of the offenses and information proving the consumer's innocence in all financial obligations. This is accomplished by way of affidavit for each account of identity theft that is cited.
Documentation
The FTC reviews the complaint. If they find that the consumer is not at fault, and that identity thieves have victimized her, they will send notices to the three major credit-reporting bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and Transunion. At this point, a security alert and measure is placed on the individual credit reports, freezing the credit history and forcing merchants to verify that the consumer is the party attempting to open or use any accounts.
Considerations
Identity theft can be a very tricky blemish to undo on credit reports over time. The FTC receives numerous complaints of identity theft each year and is not always able to respond in a timely manner. Clearing the identity theft from a credit report is often an undertaking best done by the consumer.
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