ByHow to File a Police Report for Identity Theft
According to CNBC, American consumers suffered $56 billion in losses in 2020 due to identity fraud. As identity theft is a crime in all 50 states, many victims would like to know how to file a police report for identity theft.
Filing a police report is often the first step toward disputing unauthorized transactions and repairing your credit score. However, it's not always a straightforward process, and in fact can be quite tedious and even stressful. If you are looking for a better way to file a police report for identity theft, don't worry because DoNotPay has got you covered.
What Types of Reports Can Be Filed Online?
Can you file a police report online for identity theft? Some jurisdictions do in fact allow identity theft reports online. In fact, you may be able to file certain other types of reports such as:
- Missing persons report
- Stolen property report
- Stolen package report
- Vandalism
- Underage drinking
- Credit card fraud
- White collar crimes like scammers
- Automobile accidents
To verify that you are able to file a police report online, please visit your local law enforcement's website. Some police department websites are not very easy to navigate, so it may not always be clear whether or not the agency accepts online reports. If you're not sure, you may need to contact the department directly for assistance.
What Is Required to File An Online Report?
In addition to filing the report, you may need to provide certain documentation. What type of documents do you need to file a police report for identity theft? The exact documents will vary by department as well as the type of fraud (credit card, bank fraud, etc.). A few of the documents you may be asked to supply include:
- Bank or credit card statements
- Witness statements, if applicable
- An identity theft affidavit from the Fair Trade Commission
- Your personal contact information
How to File a Police Report for Identity Theft On Your Own
There are several methods available when it comes to filing a police report. Aside from online reporting, you can generally file a report by phone or in person. You could face severe criminal fines as well as civil penalties for filing a false report, regardless of the method chosen.
| In-Person | Visit your local police department to file a fraud report in person. You can generally do so 24 hours a day; however, that does not mean that the process will be quick and easy. In fact, you could incur an extended wait time if officers are currently involved in more urgent matters. |
| Over the Phone | It is sometimes possible to file a police report for identity theft over the phone. To do so, contact your local agency and ask to speak with their white-collar crimes division. You could be connected right away, but if all officers are busy you will need to wait for a return phone call. |
| Having an Officer Visit | If you are unable to visit the police precinct in person, you could request an officer be dispatched to your location. When doing so, keep in mind that you could experience a significant wait time. Officers must handle more urgent matters such as a crime in progress before attending to routine police reports such as those regarding identity theft. |
Is There an Easier Way to File a Police Report for Identity Theft?
Identity theft can sometimes involve a stolen phone in addition to credit or debit cards in a stolen wallet. Accordingly, some people may find it difficult to even call the police, let alone file a report for identity fraud. If you are having problems reporting identity theft, DoNotPay offers a safe, efficient solution that's virtually hassle-free.
Many identity theft victims are not quite sure how the crime was committed against them. Filing a police report is extremely stressful, especially when you do not have all the details. Fortunately, DoNotPay takes what is an unusually taxing event and makes it easier for everyone.
If you want to file a police report but don't know where to start, DoNotPay has you covered in 3 easy steps. These are:
- Search "police report" on DoNotPay and select the type of incident you would like to report.
- Tell us more about the incident that occurred, including the location, date, time, and sequence of events. Include information on financial losses, personal injuries, or property damage that happened as a result.
- List any suspects or witnesses you are aware of, verify your contact information, and submit.
Why Use DoNotPay to File an Online Police Report for Identity Fraud?
What are the advantages to using DoNotPay to file your online police report for identity fraud? For starters, you won't have to waste time trying to reach the right person or face endless hold times. You also won't feel pressured to "fill in the blanks" when you don't know all the details.
A common misconception about is that it only happens to those who are careless. Consequently, people sometimes feel judged whenever they tell others they have been a victim of identity theft. There won't be any of that when you use DoNotPay to help you file your police report. You'll get great service with no judgment on our part whatsoever.
DoNotPay Works Across All Entities With the Click of a Button
First-time users of our site are often amazed at how straightforward and efficient our service is. They're even more surprised to learn that that same efficiency works across all groups and entities. With a wide range of products and services, DoNotPay can help you manage some of life's most aggravating tasks. From resetting passwords to getting documents notarized, you'll find an easy solution available through DoNotPay.
What Else Can DoNotPay Do?
In addition to helping you file a fraud report with the police, DoNotPay can assist you in solving a number of other problems too. Here are some examples:
- Making a warranty claim
- Canceling a service or subscription
- Appealing a parking ticket
- Providing a Notice of Intent to Homeschool
Get in Touch With DoNotPay
If you've been the victim of identity theft, you already have enough worries. Don't let filing a police report be another problem you must also deal with. so that we can provide you with a streamlined solution instead.