Which of the following is an essential step for restoring lost or stolen assets?

Determining the extent and nature of the loss is a critical initial step in restoring lost or stolen assets. This process involves assessing what assets are missing, understanding how they were lost or stolen, and identifying any potential contributing factors. By accurately gauging the extent of the loss, you can develop a clear action plan for recovery and take informed steps toward rectifying the situation.

Following this assessment, other actions—such as consulting with a financial advisor, filing a police report, or creating an inventory list—may become necessary. Each of these steps typically comes after understanding the specific context and details surrounding the loss, which is why prioritizing the assessment of the loss is deemed essential.