When you discover that you have been impacted by identity theft, whether this is because of fraudulent information on your credit report or the denial of loans or insurance benefits, it can be incredibly overwhelming. Unfortunately, many are unsure what to do in these circumstances, which can lead to matters becoming worse. As such, if you are impacted, it’s important to understand the benefits of identity theft reports. However, the following blog explores who you should file with and why connecting with a California identity theft victim lawyer is imperative to helping you through these complicated matters.
How Does Identity Theft Happen?
Identity theft occurs when someone who is not authorized to do so accesses your sensitive and personal information. This includes your name, date of birth, social security number, email, phone number, and address. As a result, this person will take your information and open accounts, make purchases, or take out loans in your name.
As technology advances, thieves are continually finding new ways to steal your information. Most commonly, data breaches are to blame, as hackers infiltrate retail stores, banks, and even medical providers’ databases to get the details of clients and customers. Thieves will then sell this information to others looking to commit identity theft.
Identity theft can also be perpetrated by those around you. Though it can be upsetting to think about, friends and family who have access to your home and subsequent personal documents can take this information and steal your identity for their own personal gain.
Who Should I File Identity Theft Reports With?
If you discover that you are a victim of identity theft, it’s imperative to understand your legal options. Generally, the first thing you should do is file a police report, whether you know who committed the theft or not. Though these cases can be notoriously hard to pursue due to the advanced technology many hackers use, having a formal police report will aid you in contacting other companies.
Next, you should file a report with the Federal Trade Commission, which can help provide you with additional steps to take to secure your identity. You should attach the police report you’ve filed when contacting the FTC.
Finally, you should begin filing disputes with the credit reporting agencies and any companies where you were impacted. Having the police and FTC reports can help prove that this is a serious matter and you truly are a victim of identity theft, as opposed to someone simply looking to have a charge they forgot to pay removed from their report.
One of the most important things you can do if you are a victim of identity theft is connect with an experienced attorney from Loker Law, APC. Our team understands the devastation this can cause to you and your credit, which is why we will do everything possible to help you reclaim your identity and get back on track. Contact our team today for more information.
