Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Navigating the aftermath of identity theft can bring up many questions. Here are answers to some of the most common ones we encounter.
How long does it take to resolve identity theft?
The timeline for resolving identity theft varies greatly depending on the complexity of the case. For a simple case of a single fraudulent credit card account, you might resolve the issue within a few hours or days. For more complex cases, such as when your Social Security number is used to gain employment or file taxes, the process can take many months, or in some rare cases, even years to fully untangle. The key is to be persistent and methodical in your follow-up.
Will identity theft permanently ruin my credit score?
No, it should not permanently ruin your credit score. While fraudulent activity can cause a temporary drop in your score—due to things like maxed-out credit cards or missed “payments” on fraudulent loans—these negative items can be removed. Once you have disputed the fraudulent accounts with the credit bureaus using your FTC Identity Theft Report, they are legally required to remove them. After the inaccurate information is gone, your credit score should recover.
What is the difference between a credit freeze and a credit lock?
This is an excellent question as the terms are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. A credit freeze is a right guaranteed by federal law. It is free to place, lift, and remove, and it offers the highest level of legal protection. A credit lock is a product offered by the credit bureaus, often as part of a paid credit monitoring service. Locks are typically easier to turn on and off instantly via a mobile app, offering convenience. However, they are governed by a contract between you and the bureau, not by federal law, and may not offer the same legal protections as a freeze. For victims of identity theft, a credit freeze is the recommended tool.
If I place a freeze on my credit report, can I still use my existing credit cards?
Yes, absolutely. A credit freeze does not affect your existing credit accounts. You can continue to use your credit cards, pay your mortgage, and use any other existing lines of credit as you normally would. A freeze only prevents new creditors from accessing your report to open new accounts.
How much does it cost to place a fraud alert or credit freeze?
Thanks to federal law, both fraud alerts and credit freezes are completely free. You should never have to pay to place, temporarily lift, or permanently remove a credit freeze with any of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion).
What if the thief used my information to get a driver’s license or other government ID?
If you suspect a thief has obtained a fraudulent driver’s license in your name, you should contact your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) immediately. You will likely need to go through their fraud investigation process to get the fraudulent license invalidated.
Is it possible to get a new Social Security number?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) rarely issues a new Social Security number (SSN). You must provide evidence that you are facing ongoing and significant harm as a result of the theft and that you have exhausted all other avenues of recourse. Even if you are issued a new number, your old number remains linked to you, and you would still need to resolve any issues associated with it. For most people, following the recovery steps in this guide is the most effective path forward.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Information on this website may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. Readers of this website should contact their attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular legal matter.
