Final answer:
A consumer should file an alert with the credit bureaus when they suspect identity theft or find evidence that their personal information has been compromised. It is vital to always question why one's information is needed, how it will be used, and who will have access to it, while also monitoring credit history for any signs of unauthorized activity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Consumers should file an alert with the credit bureaus if they suspect or have evidence of identity theft or if their personal information has been compromised in some way. This includes situations where you notice unauthorized transactions on your bank account or credit card, receive alerts for accounts you didn't open, or discover inaccuracies on your credit reports.
It's crucial to provide only the minimum information requested by any source, ask why information is being collected, understand how it is going to be used, and know who will have access to it. It's also essential to continuously monitor your credit history for any red flags that may indicate that your identity has been compromised.