i was the victim of identity theft how do i find a lawyer to help me

What 4 things you do if you are a victim of identity theft?

File a claim with your identity theft insurance, if applicable. ... Notify companies of your stolen identity. ... File a report with the Federal Trade Commission. ... Contact your local police department. ... Place a fraud alert on your credit reports. ... Freeze your credit. ... Sign up for a credit monitoring service, if offered.More items...

What are the three steps to take if you have been the victim of identity theft?

Here are 10 steps to take if you feel that you may have been a victim of identity fraud.Notify affected creditors or banks. ... Put a fraud alert on your credit report. ... Check your credit reports. ... Freeze your credit. ... Report the identity theft to the FTC. ... Go to the police. ... Remove fraudulent info from your credit report.More items...•Jul 9, 2019

How do you restore your credit after you have been a victim of identity theft?

Here's how.Contact all companies that have fraudulent charges or accounts in your name. ... Close and reissue cards for any compromised credit and deposit accounts. ... Put a fraud alert or a credit freeze on your credit reports. ... File a report with the Federal Trade Commission. ... Dispute fraudulent accounts on your credit report.Feb 6, 2018

What are the five steps you should take if you're a victim of ID theft?

Five Steps to Take if You Are a Victim of Identity TheftPlace a Fraud Alert on Your Credit Reports. Call one of the three credit bureaus and request to place a fraud alert on your credit report. ... Review Your Credit Report. ... Document Everything. ... Consider Placing a Credit Freeze. ... File an Identity Theft Report.

What are 2 things you should do if your identity is stolen?

What to do if your identity is stolenContact the companies and banks where you know identity fraud occurred. ... Contact the credit reporting agencies and place fraud alerts. ... Ask for copies of your credit reports. ... Place a security freeze on your credit report.More items...

How long does it take to recover from identity theft?

On average, it can take 100 to 200 hours over six months to undo identity theft. The recovery process may involve working with the three major credit bureaus to request a fraud alert; reviewing your credit reports to pinpoint fraudulent activity; and reporting the theft.

What is the first thing I should do for identity theft?

File a police report To complete the Identity Theft Report, you'll need to contact your local law enforcement office and report the theft. Be sure to get a copy of the police report and/or the report number. Both your police report and the FTC Identity Theft Affidavit combine to create your Identity Theft Report.Jan 15, 2014

What if I have already responded and fear I may be a victim of identity theft?

If you become a victim of identity theft, or even suspect that you might be a victim, take immediate action. Contact one of the credit reporting agencies' fraud alert departments and place a fraud alert on your credit report.

What are the 10 steps to protect yourself from identity theft?

10 Ways To Protect Yourself From Identity Theft. ... Destroy private records and statements. ... Secure your mail. ... Safeguard your Social Security number. ... Don't leave a paper trail. ... Never let your credit card out of your sight. ... Know who you're dealing with. ... Take your name off marketers' hit lists.More items...

What is Identity Theft?

Identity theft is when someone uses your name, address, Social Security number (SSN), bank or credit card account number, or other identifying info...

How can someone steal my identity?

Identity thieves may use any number of low or high-tech methods to gain access to your personally identifying information. Common Examples of How I...

What are the consequences of identity theft?

Once identity thieves have your personal information, they may: Go on spending sprees using your credit and debit card account numbers to buy "big-...

How can I tell if I’m a victim of identity theft?

Monitor the balances of your financial accounts. Look for unexplained charges or withdrawals. Other indications of identity theft include: Failing...

How Can I Prevent Identity Theft?

To avoid becoming a victim of identity theft, there are certain preventative measures you can take. Don't give out personal information such as you...

What should I do if my identity has been stolen?

The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) gives you specific rights when you are, or believe that you are, the victim of identity theft. You have the ri...

Identity Theft

Identity (ID) theft happens when someone steals your personal information to commit fraud.The identity thief may use your information to apply for...

Report Identity Theft

Report identity (ID) theft to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) online at IdentityTheft.gov or by phone at 1-877-438-4338. The FTC will collect th...

Prevent Identity Theft

Keep these tips in mind to protect yourself from identity theft:Secure your Social Security number (SSN). Don't carry your Social Security card in...

What happens if you learn you are a victim of identity theft?

For example, your e-filed return rejects because of a duplicate tax filing with your Social Security number, and you report the incident to us:

How does the IRS help victims of identity theft?

The IRS has worked hard to help victims of identity theft by making improvements and shortening the time it takes to resolve these complex situations. Each taxpayer’s experience will vary, depending on whether you tell us you may be a tax-related identity theft victim, or we tell you we have a suspicious tax return with your name on it.

How to verify your identity?

Follow the letter’s instructions to verify your identity. Call the toll-free number provided in the letter. You must have the letter with you when you call the Taxpayer Protection Program. Have a copy of your prior-year tax return, if you filed one, to help verify your identity. Verify your identity.

What is TPP tax?

The TPP proactively identifies and prevents the processing of identity theft tax returns and assists taxpayers whose identities are used to file such returns. There are many reasons why a return may appear to suspicious to us, and we take this precautionary step to help protect you.

How do identity thieves steal your information?

Identity thieves may use any number of low or high- tech methods to gain access to your personally identifying information. Common Examples of How Identity Thieves Steal Your Information: They obtain credit reports by abusing their employer’s authorized access to credit reports or by posing as a landlord, employer, ...

What is identity theft?

Identity theft is when someone uses your name, address, Social Security number (SSN), bank or credit card account number, or other identifying information without your knowledge to open accounts or commit fraud.

What is the Fair Credit Reporting Act?

The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) gives you specific rights when you are, or believe that you are, the victim of identity theft. Here is a brief summary of the rights designed to help you recover from identity theft.

How long does a fraud alert stay in your file?

An initial fraud alert stays in your file for at least 90 days. An extended alert stays in your file for seven years. To place either of these alerts, a consumer reporting agency will require you to provide appropriate proof of your identity, which may include your Social Security number.

Can identity theft run up bills?

An identity thief may run up bills in your name and not pay them. Information about the unpaid bills may appear on your consumer report. Should you decide to ask a consumer reporting agency to block the reporting of this information, you must identify the information to block, and provide the consumer reporting agency with proof of your identity and the police report if you did file one.

What documents do creditors need to give you?

A creditor or other business must give you copies of applications and other business records relating to transactions and accounts that resulted from the theft of your identity, if you ask for them in writing. A business may ask you for proof of your identity, a police report, and an affidavit before giving you the documents.

Why is it so hard to get credit in your name?

A fraud alert can make it more difficult for someone to get credit in your name because it tells creditors to follow certain procedures to protect you. It also may delay your ability to obtain credit. You may place a fraud alert in your file by calling just one of the three nationwide consumer reporting agencies.

How to protect yourself from identity theft?

Keep these tips in mind to protect yourself from identity theft: Secure your Social Security number (SSN). Don't carry your Social Security card in your wallet. Only give out your SSN when necessary. Don't share personal information (birthdate, Social Security number, or bank account number) because someone asks for it.

What is identity theft?

Identity Theft. Identity (ID) theft happens when someone steals your personal information to commit fraud. The identity thief may use your information to apply for credit, file taxes, or get medical services. These acts can damage your credit status, and cost you time and money to restore your good name. Open All +.

What are the different types of identity theft?

Types of ID Theft. There are several common types of identity theft that can affect you: Tax ID theft - Someone uses your Social Security number to falsely file tax returns with the IRS or your state. Medical ID theft - Someone steals your Medicare ID or health insurance member number. Thieves use this information to get medical services ...

What is a VPN?

Use a virtual private network (VPN) Virtual Private Network (VPN): a private network that connects your computer or mobile device to the internet and encrypts (codes) your information to protect your internet activity from monitoring or spying. , if you use public wi-fi.

How does identity theft affect victims?

The impact of identity theft can severely harm victims and may be challenging to prove. A victim can erroneously end up with a criminal background or experience financial consequences. It is essential to protect your personal information and data to avoid identity theft.

What is identity theft?

Identity Theft Defined. Identity theft is a crime in the United States. Identity theft typically involves someone using or taking another’s personal information for deception or economic benefit. It can occur in many ways, including online and offline methods.

What are some examples of identity theft?

Identity theft examples of who needs a lawyer may include: 1 Someone stole your wallet or purse to steal your identity 2 Your detractor found your information by dumpster diving 3 Someone stole your mail or redirected it to another address 4 You gave money to a person over the phone, and the company in question does not have a record of the transaction 5 You cannot get a loan or a job due to false information that you can’t resolve on your own

Where does Attorney Gaudet work?

Attorney Gaudet has worked in the healthcare and property management business sectors for many years. As an attorney, contract drafting, review, and negotiation has always been an area of great focus and interest. Attorney Gaudet currently works in Massachusetts real estate law, business and corporate law, and bankruptcy law.

How much does a data breach cost?

Identity theft statistics for data breaches estimate that a data breach’s average cost is $3.86 million.

What is a phone scam?

Scammers may offer an extended warranty, free vacation, or ask you to install software while appearing to be communicating on behalf of a reputable source.

How does phishing work?

Phishing scams involve impersonating a legitimate business to gain personal information through digital communications, including text messages, emails, and advertisements. Typically, the victim clicks a link that directs him or her to an official-looking website that asks you to complete and fill out your personal information and sends your information to your detractors.

What an Identity Theft lawyer can do for you

An identity theft attorney will work to hold the thief responsible, recover financial losses, and repair damages you have experienced as a result. If someone is using your name to open accounts and make purchases, you may need a consumers’ rights attorney.

Why hire an Identity theft attorney

When someone else uses your name without your consent, you are the victim of identity theft and may benefit from the services of an identity theft attorney.

Did you know?

The No. 1 cause of identity fraud is not from online identity theft, but from the old-fashioned burglary of your wallet, purse, and other personal identification. If you suspect someone has stolen your identity, contact an identity theft attorney.

How to file an identity theft report?

Go to IdentityTheft.gov or call 1-877-438-4338. Include as many details as possible. Based on the information you enter, IdentityTheft.gov will create your Identity Theft Report and personal recovery plan. Show. You may choose to file a report with your local police department.

How long can you be in jail for identity theft?

This offense, in most circumstances, carries a maximum term of 15 years' imprisonment, a fine, and criminal forfeiture of any personal property used or intended to be used to commit the offense. Schemes to commit identity theft or fraud may also involve violations of other statutes such as identification fraud (18 U.S.C.

What are some examples of criminals?

With enough identifying information about an individual, a criminal can take over that individual's identity to conduct a wide range of crimes. For example: 1 False applications for loans and credit cards, 2 Fraudulent withdrawals from bank accounts, 3 Fraudulent use of telephone calling cards or online accounts, or 4 Obtaining other goods or privileges which the criminal might be denied if he were to use his real name

How to get free credit report?

Get your free credit reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Go to annualcreditreport.com or call 1-877-322-8228. Review your reports. Make note of any account or transaction you don’t recognize. This will help you report the theft to the FTC and the police. Show. Report identity theft to the FTC.

What is spam email?

Many people respond to "spam"– unsolicited E-mail – that promises them some benefit but requests identifying data, without realizing that in many cases, the requester has no intention of keeping his promise. In some cases, criminals reportedly have used computer technology to steal large amounts of personal data.

Can criminals steal personal information?

In some cases, criminals reportedly have used computer technology to steal large amounts of personal data. With enough identifying information about an individual, a criminal can take over that individual's identity to conduct a wide range of crimes. For example: False applications for loans and credit cards,

What to do if someone is a victim of identity theft?

If an individual is or thinks they are a victim of identity theft, they should notify the authorities. If evidence is available, law enforcement will provide the case to the local District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

How can identity be stolen?

An individual’s identity can be stolen in several ways, including: Mail theft - Stealing mail from the mailbox including credit card offers and bank statements; Robbery - Taking someone’s wallet which usually includes personal information such as a driver’s license and credit cards;

How to protect identity?

An individual can protect themselves from identity theft by safeguarding their personal information. The most crucial documents are bank statements and credit card information. It may be necessary to develop new habits to keep information safe, such as: 1 Putting any documents containing personal information in a paper shredder instead of the garbage can; 2 Asking a trusted family member or other individual to get mail when a person is out of town; 3 Notifying the post office if a person changes their address; 4 Cancelling lost or stolen credit cards immediately; 5 Keeping debit and credit cards in a safe place where they will not be stolen; 6 Using antivirus software on the home computer; 7 Using a password or passcode on any electronic device that contains personal information and may be stolen; and/or 8 Only communicating personal information through a secure and trusted website, not by email.

What is identity theft?

Identity theft is defined by the United States Department of Justice all types of crimes that involve obtaining and using someone else’s personal data through fraud or deception for economic gain. Identity theft can occur in different ways, including in public places and through technology.

What type of damages can a victim collect?

A victim may be eligible to collect: Compensatory damages; Punitive damages ; Emotional distress damages; and/or. An injunction. Compensatory damages are the most commonly awarded type of damages. These will cover financial losses incurred as a result of the identity theft.

What is an injunction in criminal law?

An injunction is a court order that requires an individual to refrain from a certain action or activity. In cases of identity theft, a court may order the criminal to apologize, notify individuals about data exposure and release the victim from financial liability that occurs due to their crimes.

What to do when someone is out of town?

Asking a trusted family member or other individual to get mail when a person is out of town; Notifying the post office if a person changes their address; Cancelling lost or stolen credit cards immediately; Keeping debit and credit cards in a safe place where they will not be stolen;

How to protect your personal information from being stolen?

There are additional things that you can do to prevent theft of your personal information in the future. For example, most people know that they shouldn't carry their Social Security card in their wallets; however, other precautionary measures you can take include: 1 Changing your online passwords and using stronger passwords. 2 Not giving out your Social Security number unless there’s a legal reason to do so. 3 Never clicking on email links if you don’t recognize the sender or return email address. 4 Shredding all important papers instead of throwing them in the trash. 5 If mail theft is a problem in your area, exploring solutions with your local post office. 6 Reviewing your credit report at least once per year. Remember, you get one free report from each major credit reporting bureau—TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian—each year. If you stagger them, you can review your report three times per year.

How to check if someone is using my Social Security number?

Check for Fraudulent Use of Your Social Security Number. Get a copy of your Social Security benefits statement to see if anyone is using your number for work or other purposes. If you find fraudulent use of your Social Security number, contact the SSA’s fraud hotline at 800-269-0271.

What does a credit freeze do?

A credit freeze stops potential creditors from looking at your credit history, which prevents an identity thief from getting credit in your name. A credit freeze won’t stop you from being able to get new credit, but you will have to remove the freeze to get approved.

How to get a police report?

To get a police report, go to your local police office with: a copy of the Identity Theft Report. a government-issued identification with a photo. proof of your address (mortgage statement, rental agreement, or utilities bill) any other proof you have of the theft (bills, IRS notices, etc.), and.

Can I lift my credit freeze?

So, if you’re planning on buying a new car, taking out a home loan, or making some other use of your credit, you'll have to lift the freeze temporarily. Under federal law, placing and lifting a credit freeze is now free.

Can I file a police report for identity theft?

File a Police Report. Often, you can use your Identity Theft Report rather than a police report to clear up credit issues resulting from identity theft. But, sometimes, it might be useful to also have a police report. For example, you'll want to file a police report if you know who stole your identity ...

Does a credit report include your credit score?

The report won’t include your credit score, however. Companies can charge a fee for providing that service. To stop any unauthorized use of your accounts, you can contact each credit reporting agency and ask for a “credit freeze.”. After you get the reports, you’ll want to review them for inaccurate information.