CREDIT FRAUD CAN’T HIDE FOREVER — How to Reclaim Control When Your Credit Is Compromised
Credit fraud can upend your finances and your future
Learn how to detect, report, and recover from credit fraud with guidance from R23 Law’s California Consumer Protection Attorneys.
Credit fraud doesn’t just threaten your wallet—it jeopardizes your credit score, financial reputation, and long-term security. From phishing scams to account takeovers, bad actors are using increasingly sophisticated tactics to steal identities and rack up debt under innocent people’s names.
At R23 Law, our California Consumer Protection Attorneys help clients take back control. If you're facing unauthorized credit activity, we provide aggressive legal representation to stop the fraud, clear your credit reports, and restore your peace of mind.
What Is Credit Fraud?
Credit fraud refers to the unauthorized use of your personal or financial information to obtain credit, make purchases, or drain accounts. It often results in damaged credit scores, unapproved debts, and even legal trouble if left unresolved.
Common forms of credit fraud include:
Identity Theft: When someone uses your personal information to open new accounts or commit financial crimes in your name.
Account Takeover: When a fraudster gains control of your existing accounts and makes changes to lock you out.
Credit Card Fraud: Unauthorized transactions made using your physical or virtual credit card details.
Spotting the Red Flags: How to Detect Credit Fraud Early
Credit fraud can start small—just a few dollars here or a subtle shift in your mail delivery. But the sooner you catch it, the easier it is to stop the damage. Warning signs include:
Unfamiliar Charges on your bank or credit card statements
Missing Mail such as bills or new card offers
Inaccurate Credit Reports showing unfamiliar accounts or credit inquiries
What to Do If You Suspect Credit Fraud
If you believe someone has accessed your credit or opened accounts in your name, time is critical. Here are immediate steps R23 Law recommends:
1. Alert Your Financial Institutions
Notify your banks and credit card companies to freeze or close compromised accounts.
2. Place a Fraud Alert
Contact one of the three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion. A fraud alert warns lenders to verify your identity before issuing credit.
3. Freeze Your Credit
This blocks new credit accounts from being opened in your name and adds an extra layer of protection.
Reporting Credit Fraud to Authorities
Don't let fraudsters walk away unchallenged. Reporting the fraud is essential to protecting others and strengthening your legal case.
File a Police Report: Document the fraud with your local authorities.
Report to the FTC: File a complaint at identitytheft.gov.
Contact the CFPB: The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau can help resolve disputes and offer guidance on next steps.
Reclaiming Financial Control After Credit Fraud
Once the fraud is reported, it’s time to repair the damage. Our attorneys help clients:
Review & Dispute unauthorized charges and accounts
Correct Credit Reports with evidence and legal support
Secure Your Accounts with new passwords, two-factor authentication, and monitoring
We can also assist with removing fraud alerts from Experian or other credit bureaus once your credit file has been cleared.
Prevention Starts Now: Protect Yourself Against Future Attacks
The best defense against credit fraud is vigilance. Here’s what R23 Law’s California Consumer Protection Attorneys recommend:
Monitor Accounts Regularly: Check statements for suspicious activity.
Shred Sensitive Documents: Don’t just throw away old bank or credit card statements—destroy them.
Stay Wary of Phishing Scams: Never click suspicious links or provide personal info unless you're certain it's secure.
Consider Credit Monitoring Services
These services track your credit activity and alert you to potential fraud before it spirals. They can be especially helpful if you’ve been targeted before.
When to Call R23 Law
If you’ve fallen victim to credit fraud—or even suspect it—contact R23 Law’s California Consumer Protection Attorneys. We’ll guide you through every step, from credit dispute letters to formal litigation if necessary. You deserve financial peace, and we’re here to fight for it.
📞 Schedule your free consultation today
💼 Serving individuals across California. Remote and bilingual services available.
