Victims of Identity Theft

Saturday, February 17, 2007

Some people believe that identity theft is the most exploited of all the Internet security vulnerabilities, but getting your identity stolen can occur by other means, including phone calls, public registry research, ordinary mail, etc. etc.

There are many resources explaining how identity theft occurs and the different ways in which an individual can prevent being victimized. However, there is not much information on what you should do if your identity has been stolen.

First before anything else, keep a cool head to avoid falling into more mistakes. Depending on how comprised is your personal security, that of your finances, or whatever else is involved in the problem, a lawyer is always the best option to look for.

A lawyer can assist you to determine how big your problem is and provide you with legal advice step-by-step, or determine if your identity was stolen if you suspect that you have been victimized.

Otherwise, your common sense and a few guidelines can stop further actions from the thief, avoiding getting your name involved in actions that you are not doing.

Quick action is the key factor to minimize the damage so act immediately reporting identity theft to major credit bureaus as soon as you find your identity stolen. Equifax, Trans Union, and Experian will place a fraud alert in your file as soon as you report the issue.

Ask for a free copy of your credit report and keep records of all your correspondence with job, law, and financial institutions can help you to keep track of possible identity theft. It is a good practice to jot down dates, names, and phone numbers of people you talk with, as well as emails sent.

Every time you can, make sure to confirm any information in writing, whether you are giving or asking for it. This is easier to accomplish if you send your letters and documents by certified email with return receipt request to log all your correspondence.

Contact any creditors immediately that has opened fraudulent accounts or those with legitimate accounts in which an identity thief has gained access. Close fraudulent accounts and change the password for those accounts that you need to keep.

Filing a police report is necessary to get a copy for your records because some financial institutions may require it as proof. If thieving occurred on the Internet, you can report it online to the FBI, CIA, FTC, EPIC, or US Justice Department.

There are other identity theft resources for victims of identity theft, but remember that legal advice from a lawyer can help you to determine which of them is the most suitable in your particular case.