Identity theft: someone orders or pays in your name
Suddenly bills, reminders, or collection letters arrive for orders you never made, or an account was opened in your name? Then someone has misused your identity. In principle you are not liable for such contracts, but you must take action.
Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:
Check a suspicious message →Your chances of getting your money back
What you should do now
- 1
1. Dispute claims in writing
Inform the retailer or collection agency that no contract exists with you (identity misuse). Acknowledge nothing and do not pay.
- 2
2. File a report
File a report with the police. The case number helps you clear yourself toward creditors.
- 3
3. Check SCHUFA / credit agencies
Get your data copy (Art. 15 GDPR) and have false entries arising from the misuse corrected or deleted.
- 4
4. Secure your accounts
Change passwords, check your accounts, and set up, where possible, alerts or two-factor authentication.
How to spot the scam
- Bills or reminders for goods you never ordered.
- Debt collection for a contract you do not know.
- Letters about an account or subscription you never opened.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to pay for orders a fraudster made in my name?
In principle no. Without your declaration of intent, no effective contract comes about. Dispute the claim in writing, referring to the identity misuse, acknowledge nothing, and file a report.
How do I protect my SCHUFA?
Request your free data copy (Art. 15 GDPR) and have entries arising from the misuse corrected or deleted (Art. 16/17 GDPR). The police case number helps you prove the misuse.
Take action now
We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.
General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.