// Guides
Identity theft — what to do?
In identity theft, criminals use your name and data to order goods or services. What matters: quick hardening, a police report and a written, on-time objection to unjustified claims.
Updated: 2026-06-19
Immediate steps
- 1Secure affected accounts: change passwords, enable 2FA, review unusual activity.
- 2Check whether your data has leaked (e.g. HPI Identity Leak Checker, Have I Been Pwned).
- 3File a police report — the case number helps when fending off claims.
- 4Object in writing and on time to unjustified invoices, reminders and debt collection (Verbraucherzentrale template letters).
- 5Check credit agencies (e.g. SCHUFA) and arrange correction/a fraud note if needed.
- 6Inform affected banks, shops and providers; preserve all documents as evidence.
What not to do
- Do not ignore claims — respond in writing and on time.
- Do not pay anything “just to be safe” that you did not initiate.
- Do not let deadlines of court orders (Mahnbescheid) lapse — enforcement titles may follow.
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Common questions
- I received a court order (Mahnbescheid) — what now?
- Object on time (usually within two weeks). Do not let the deadline lapse, otherwise an enforcement title may be issued.
- Who helps officially?
- The Verbraucherzentrale (advice, template letters), the police (report) and the BSI (technical guidance) are the main points of contact.
- How do I prevent it?
- Be sparing with data, use strong unique passwords, 2FA and regular leak checks.