Discovering that your identity has been stolen can feel overwhelming. Fraudulent charges, unfamiliar accounts, collection notices, or even lawsuits tied to your name can create stress and confusion. The good news is that Wisconsin consumers have strong legal protections, and there are clear steps you can take to limit the damage and regain control.

If you believe your identity has been stolen, acting quickly is critical. Here's what to do — step by step.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. For guidance specific to your situation, consult a licensed Wisconsin attorney.

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Step 1: Confirm the Identity Theft

Common warning signs of identity theft include:

• Credit report accounts you don't recognize

• Bills or collection notices for debts you didn't incur

• Bank or credit card charges you didn't make

• Denied credit for no clear reason

• IRS or government notices you weren't expecting

If something doesn't look right, trust your instincts and investigate immediately.

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Step 2: Place a Fraud Alert or Credit Freeze

Fraud Alert

A fraud alert warns lenders that you may be a victim of identity theft and that extra steps should be taken to verify your identity before extending credit.

Credit Freeze

A credit freeze prevents new credit from being opened in your name without your consent. This is often the most effective way to stop further damage.

Both options are free and can be placed by contacting the major credit bureaus. A freeze remains in place until you remove it.

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Step 3: Review Your Credit Reports Carefully

Request and review your credit reports from all three credit bureaus. Look for:

• Accounts you did not open

• Incorrect balances

• Unauthorized inquiries

• Addresses or employers you don't recognize

Make a list of every suspicious item — this will guide your next steps.

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Step 4: Report the Identity Theft

Report to the Federal Trade Commission

File an identity theft report with the Federal Trade Commission. This creates an official record and provides a recovery plan and affidavit you can use when disputing fraudulent accounts.

File a Police Report (If Needed)

In some cases, filing a police report is helpful or required — especially if:

• Large financial losses are involved

• Creditors demand official documentation

• Your identity was used in a crime

In Wisconsin, you can file a report with your local law enforcement agency.

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Step 5: Dispute Fraudulent Accounts and Charges

Contact both:

• The credit bureaus reporting the error, and

• The businesses that opened or reported the fraudulent accounts

Your dispute should:

• Clearly identify the fraudulent account

• State that the account is the result of identity theft

• Include copies (not originals) of supporting documents

Under consumer protection laws, companies must investigate and correct verified identity theft.

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Step 6: Close or Secure Compromised Accounts

For accounts that were fraudulently opened or accessed:

• Close the account if possible

• Change passwords and PINs

• Enable multi-factor authentication

• Monitor statements closely

If bank accounts are involved, notify your financial institution immediately.

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Step 7: Watch for Debt Collection or Lawsuits

Identity theft often leads to collection attempts for debts you never owed. If you receive:

• Collection letters

• Court papers

• Wage garnishment notices

Do not ignore them.
Respond promptly and state that the debt is the result of identity theft. Wisconsin law allows consumers to challenge debts that are not theirs — but those rights must be asserted.

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Step 8: File Complaints With State Agencies

You may also file a complaint with the Wisconsin Department of Justice, which investigates consumer fraud and identity theft patterns.

While not every complaint results in enforcement, complaints help create records and support broader consumer protection efforts.

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Step 9: Monitor Your Credit and Financial Accounts Long-Term

Identity theft recovery doesn't end once errors are corrected. Continue to:

• Monitor credit reports regularly

• Watch bank and credit card statements

• Keep records of disputes and resolutions

• Renew fraud alerts if needed

Identity theft can resurface months or even years later if not carefully monitored.

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Step 10: Know When to Seek Legal Help

You may want legal guidance if:

• Fraudulent accounts are not being removed

• Credit bureaus fail to correct errors

• Debt collectors continue pursuing stolen-identity debts

• You are sued over fraudulent accounts

• Wage garnishment or bank levies are involved

Wisconsin law provides remedies when companies fail to correct identity theft-related errors.

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Final Thoughts

Identity theft is stressful, but you are not powerless. Wisconsin consumers have strong rights to dispute fraudulent accounts, stop improper collections, and restore their credit. Acting quickly, documenting everything, and asserting your rights can dramatically reduce the long-term impact.

The sooner you respond, the more control you regain.

Attorney Nathan DeLadurantey offers free consultations to explain your legal rights in Wisconsin. Free consultations can be scheduled online.