<p></p> <p>If you’ve never been a victim of identity theft, you probably don’t know what steps to take right away. Identity theft becomes really complicated when someone uses your good name to open accounts, file taxes or create phony medical claims. If you start getting emails, calls or letters about accounts you’re not familiar with, follow up with the companies right away. Sometimes all you have to do to clear up the mess is close your bank or credit card account. If someone is impersonating you and using your Social Security number for tax purposes, the process is different—you should report it and fill out an Identity Theft Affidavit (Form 14039). <br><br>Next, you can <a href="http://www.identitythefrt.gov/" target="_self">file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission</a>. They offer great advice on developing a game plan and explain how to make a police report and dispute fraudulent credit card charges. Another good idea is to place a fraud alert on your credit reports or initiate a credit freeze. A freeze will limit all access to your reports and restrict credit bureaus from sharing your information.<br><br>If you’ve already been a victim of identity theft, keep a close eye on your credit reports and check them regularly for mistakes. Also, take extra time to review your credit card statements in case unauthorized charges start showing up. <br><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/" target="_self">Use Diamond Certified Resource to find top rated companies.</a><br><br><strong>Related Articles</strong><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/Guide/Savvy-Consumer/" target="_self">Your Guide to Being a Savvy Consumer</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Get Expert Advice From Owners of Top</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Rated Local Companies</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/membership/" target="_self">Become a Diamond Certified Preferred Member (Always Free)</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-top-rated-companies/hub/ca/san-francisco-bay-area/" target="_self">Find Top Rated Companies in the San Francisco Bay Area</a>&nbsp;</p>