Ask the credit bureau to place a “fraud” alert on your file so that no new credit can be granted without your approval. Be sure to follow-up with a written report after a phone call.

Request a free copy of your credit file and review it carefully. Look for inquiries from companies you haven't contacted, accounts you didn't open, and debts on your accounts that you can't explain. Verify that personal information, like your Social Security Number, addresses, name or initials, and employers are correct.

Continue to check your credit reports periodically to make sure no new fraudulent activity has occurred.