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Identity Theft / Scams
Identity theft and scams occur when criminals use deception to steal your personal or financial information—such as Social Security numbers, bank details, passwords, or credit card information—for their own gain. These crimes can happen through phone calls, emails, text messages, fake websites, social media, or even in person, and they often appear to come from trusted sources like banks, government agencies, or familiar businesses. Falling victim to a scam or identity theft can lead to serious consequences, including financial loss, damaged credit, emotional stress, and long-term challenges restoring your identity. Staying informed and taking steps to protect yourself—such as guarding personal information, recognizing warning signs, and reporting suspicious activity—can significantly reduce your risk and help protect not only you, but also your family and community from becoming victims.
What should you do if you believe you are the victim of identity theft, scam or fraud!?
1. Report Scams and File Complaints
Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DTCAP)
- Wisconsin's primary consumer protection agency. You can file complaints, report fraud and get education materials.
- Consumer Protection Hotline: 1-800-422-7128
- File a complaint online: https://mydatcp.wi.gov/Complaints/complaint/create/ea42c589-da19-e511-af89-0050568c06ae
Wisconsin Department of Justice | Stop Financial Scams
- Wisconsin Elder Abuse Hotline: (833)586-0107
Federal and Multi-Jurisdiction Reporting
- FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center. Report online and internet-enabled scams at: https://www.ic3.gov/
- Federal Trade Commission Fraud Department. Report scams and identity theft at: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/
- Create a recovery plan and report identity theft at: IdentityTheft.gov
File a complaint with your local law enforcement agency
2. Identity Theft and Financial Recovery
DATCP Identity Theft Complaint Form
- Helps document fraud and initiate investigative/referral
- File a police report.
Credit Protection Steps (From ReadyWisconsin.gov)
- If your identity was compromised, place a fraud alert or credit freeze with the three credit bureaus:
- TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289
- Equifax: 1-888-766-0008
- Experian: 1-888-397-3742
- Review your credit reports regularly.
3. Practical Steps After You've Been Scammed
- Document everything: Save Texts, emails, receipts and screenshots.
- Report to law enforcement and state agencies: Use above contact information.
- Protect your identity: Freeze credit, change passwords, and monitor accounts.
- Use support resources: Reach out to AARP Helpline or local community support. AARP Helpline 877-908-3360.
- Stay informed: Use free education materials from DATCP or AARP to avoid future fraud.