What should I do immediately if I think I've been the victim of financial fraud?

Act fast and in order. Contact the affected bank or card issuer right away to freeze or close the account and dispute charges; federal rules limit your liability more when you report quickly. Change passwords and enable two-factor authentication on financial and email accounts. Place a fraud alert or, better, a free credit freeze at all three bureaus through the CFPB-backed process so new accounts cannot be opened. File a report at the FTC's identitytheft.gov, which generates a recovery plan, and file a police report if identity theft is involved. Save all records and communications. Monitor statements and your credit report closely for months afterward. If retirement or investment accounts are involved, notify the brokerage and consider reporting to the SEC or FINRA. Speed and documentation are your best tools.