If you believe your mail has been stolen and your identity compromised, act fast. First, report the mail theft to the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS). This helps initiate a federal investigation and may prevent further unauthorized access to your mail. You should also notify your local police department to document the theft, which can support your case later.
Next, request credit reports from Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion and review them carefully for unauthorized accounts or activity. If you find anything suspicious, place a fraud alert on your file to warn creditors that you may be a victim of identity theft. A fraud alert makes it harder for identity thieves to open accounts in your name. You can also consider a credit freeze for added protection.
File an identity theft report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov. This allows you to create a personalized recovery plan and provides you with a document that can serve as an official record when disputing fraudulent accounts or charges. If fraudulent accounts have already been opened, contact those creditors immediately and provide them with your FTC report and police report to dispute the charges.
Finally, monitor your credit and mail closely moving forward. Consider switching to paperless billing and use a locked mailbox to reduce the risk of future theft. If the identity theft becomes complex or a creditor refuses to remove fraudulent accounts, it may be helpful to seek legal representation from a consumer protection attorney.
