Keeping a Log After Identity Fraud
Resolving identity fraud can take weeks and many calls. A simple log template for dates, contacts, reference numbers and outcomes, and why it makes recovery faster and less stressful.
Recovering from identity fraud often means calling banks, lenders, credit bureaus, the police and others, sometimes several times each. It is easy to lose track of who you spoke to, what they promised and which reference number goes with which case. A simple log makes the process faster and gives you evidence if anything is disputed.
What to record
| Column | Example |
|---|---|
| Date and time | 3 Oct, 10:15 |
| Organization | Example Bank fraud team |
| How contacted | Phone (number from official website) |
| Person spoken to | First name or staff ID |
| Reference number | Case ref |
| What was said or agreed | Account to be closed and marked as fraud |
| Follow-up date | Check credit file on 17 Oct |
| Documents sent or received | Written confirmation requested |
Also keep
- Copies of letters, emails and statements related to the fraud.
- Your identity theft report and any police reference. See reporting identity theft.
- Screenshots of fraudulent accounts or messages. See preserving evidence.
- Records of any money spent dealing with the fraud.
Tips
- Follow up calls in writing, summarising what was agreed.
- Use official contact details only, and note where you found them.
- Store the log securely, as it contains personal information.
- Set reminders for follow-up dates.
A log also protects you from follow-up scams. If someone calls claiming to be "handling your case", check their story against your log and call the organization back yourself.
Received a message about your fraud case? Paste it into CyberWatch AI Scan for a free check.
Related: someone opened an account in my name and long-term recovery. For the full process, see how to recover a taken-over account.
Frequently asked questions
Why keep a log?
Because you may deal with many organizations over weeks or months. A log helps you follow up, prove what you reported and when, and avoid repeating yourself.
Paper or digital?
Either. A spreadsheet or notes file is easy to search. If digital, store it somewhere secure, since it contains personal information.
How long should I keep it?
Until all accounts and disputes are closed, and ideally for several years, since problems can resurface.
Sources
- IdentityTheft.gov, US Federal Trade Commission
- Sample Letter to Credit Bureaus Disputing Errors on Credit Reports, US Federal Trade Commission
- What To Know About Identity Theft, US Federal Trade Commission
