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What you need to know about identity theft verification alerts

minute read

    Stay informed and secure with this added layer of protection

    Applying for a loan? Recently submitted a rental application? You might see an identity verification alert from Chase Credit Journey®. An identity verification alert is our way of letting you know that a business is trying to confirm who you are after an application is submitted with your personal information.

    Most of the time it's nothing to worry about, but occasionally, you may get an alert for something you don’t recognize. Read on to understand what this alert means and how to protect yourself if you suspect fraud.

    How do identity verification alerts work?

    An identity verification alert can be triggered when a business tries to verify your identity, like when you apply for an apartment, a new phone service or other forms of credit. Businesses do this to make sure you are who you say you are and to prevent fraud.

    The alert will typically include:

    • The date of the activity
    • The name of the business, including address and phone number
    • A description of the type of business

    These details help you verify the activity and can help determine whether you need to take action.

    I got an alert. What should I do next?

    Most times you’ll receive an identity verification alert and the details will look familiar to you. After all, in order for a business to check your credit they must first get your consent. If you get an alert and recognize the activity, you don’t need to do anything.

    If you don’t recognize the activity, it could mean that someone is using your identity. Consider taking these steps to protect against fraud if this ever happens:

    • Contact the company where it happened and let them know.
    • Consider putting a freeze on your credit report with the three major bureaus as an additional precaution.
    • Review your credit report to make sure everything looks right.
    • Continue to check your credit report and ID Monitoring alerts for any new activity and changes.

    If you notice any suspicious activity, report it immediately to the bureau. Doing so reduces your chance of fraud.

    Finally, sign up for identity monitoring alerts so that you’re the first to know when a verification alert happens. Make sure to also check out our articles on preventing and protecting yourself from identity theft.

    Key takeaways

    • You’ll get an identity verification alert any time a business or landlord verifies your identity, like when you submit an application for a loan or apartment.
    • The alert you receive should include the date of the activity, the business name, including location and phone number.
    • These alerts are common. Businesses may want to confirm your identity anytime you apply for an apartment, a loan, and other types of credit.
    • If you recognize the information in the alert, then there's nothing you need to do.
    • If you don't recognize the alert, contact the business where it happened and let them know. Consider putting a freeze on your credit report and review your credit report for any suspicious activity.
    • Sign up for our identity monitoring alerts to help protect yourself against fraud. 

     

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