2. Talk to your financial institutions

If your identity has been stolen, contact your banks, credit agencies, credit card companies, and any other companies that you have an account with. Tell them about the identity theft and show them the police report.

Even if you do not know that your identity has been stolen but you notice unusual activity or transactions in your bank account, credit card statements, or investment accounts, you should let that company know right away.

You might need to change your account numbers and your Personal Identification Numbers (PIN) and get new debit and credit cards. Ask your bank what else you can do to stop the thief from using your bank accounts and credit cards.

These companies may want to be sure that you are really a victim and you are not working with the thief. You can show that you are serious about stopping the thieves by reporting your identity theft to the police.