Realising that someone has stolen your identity can be overwhelming. It’s not always immediately clear how much damage has been done, and fraud can unfold over weeks or months. Whether your bank account has been accessed, credit taken out in your name, or personal documents used elsewhere, taking swift action is essential to minimise harm and protect your future finances.
Below, we’ll walk you through what you can do, who you can contact, and how to stay protected after identity theft.
- Report the Fraud Immediately
If you suspect your identity has been stolen:
- Contact your bank or credit card provider right away. They can freeze or close accounts, block cards, and issue replacements.
- Report the incident to Action Fraud, the UK’s national centre for fraud and cybercrime. You can report online at actionfraud.police.uk or by phone via 0300 123 2040.
- If a crime has occurred or you’re in immediate danger, call 101 or 999.
Once you’ve reported the issue, Action Fraud will give you a crime reference number. Keep this safe, as it may be needed if you’re dealing with credit agencies or insurance providers.
- Secure Your Online and Financial Accounts
If you’re unsure which information has been compromised, assume that everything could be at risk:
- Change your passwords for email, banking, social media, and any other sensitive accounts. Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) where possible.
- Alert your creditors, including credit card companies, lenders, utilities, and mobile phone providers. Many have specialist fraud teams who can secure your account, investigate unusual activity, and prevent further misuse.
- Consider placing a temporary freeze on your credit file with major agencies.
- Check and Monitor Your Credit Report
Your credit report will show if anyone has applied for credit, loans, or contracts using your details.
You can check your credit report for free through:
Look out for:
- Accounts or applications you don’t recognise.
- Credit checks from unfamiliar lenders.
- Changes to your address or personal information.
If you spot something suspicious, report it to the relevant credit agency and request that they investigate and correct the record. Ask them to place a notice of correction to highlight that you’ve been the victim of identity fraud.
Continue to monitor your credit report regularly — monthly checks are ideal for the next six months at least.
- Watch for Missing or Stolen Post
Fraudsters often intercept or redirect mail to gather your information.
If expected mail doesn’t arrive (such as a new card, PIN, or bill):
- Contact the sender (bank, utility company, etc.) to verify when it was sent.
- If the item was sent via Royal Mail, contact their Customer Services on 03457 740 740 or visit royalmail.com.
- Report any concerns about potential redirection fraud to Royal Mail and Action Fraud.
- If you live in shared accommodation, consider fitting a lockable mailbox or using a mail redirection service if you move home.
- Deal With Fraudulent Accounts in Your Name
If a fraudster has opened an account using your identity — for example, a mobile phone contract or utility account — contact the company directly. You’ll usually need to provide:
- Your personal details.
- Evidence that the account is fraudulent (e.g. police report or crime reference number).
- Proof of your identity and address.
Ask for the account to be flagged and closed. You may also need to contact credit reference agencies to ensure the account is removed from your credit file.
- Register for Extra Protection (CIFAS)
You can take extra steps to protect your identity by registering for Protective Registration with CIFAS.
- For a small fee (at the time of writing, £30 for 2 years), CIFAS will place a flag on your credit file.
- This means that extra checks will be carried out whenever someone tries to open credit in your name, helping to stop further fraud.
- Be aware that this may slow down your own genuine credit applications slightly — but it’s often a small price to pay for peace of mind.
- Seek Support and Advice
Being the victim of identity theft can take an emotional toll as well as a financial one. You don’t have to deal with it alone.
Helpful organisations include:
- Citizens Advice – They can provide tailored advice about your rights, financial impact, and next steps. Visit citizensadvice.org.uk.
- Victim Support – Offers confidential support to people affected by crime, including identity fraud. Learn more at victimsupport.org.uk or call 08 08 16 89 111.
- StepChange or National Debtline – If the fraud has caused financial strain, these charities offer free debt advice.
*Be cautious in online forums. While it can help to talk to others, scammers have been known to frequent support forums. Never share personal information online, even with seemingly helpful users.
Final Thoughts
Recovering from identity theft can take time, but acting quickly and using the right tools will reduce the impact and help restore your financial health. Once you’ve secured your information and cleaned up any fraudulent activity, keep a watchful eye on your accounts and credit score. Staying vigilant is the best way to stop fraudsters in their tracks.