What is identity theft?
Because of all the data breaches in the news, there are a lot of questions about identity theft, and frankly there is a lot of confusion. So let us first define the true meaning of "identity theft." California law defines identity theft as "unauthorized use of someone else's personally identifiable information to obtain credit, goods, services, money or property." Carl. civilization. Code §1798.92[b]. Ok, but the lawyer's stuff is enough to show what it means?
Basically, if you use someone else's name or identity to get something in return [usually money] for identity theft! Many people believe that they must take over for life to qualify as victims of identity theft. that is not true. Even simple things like unauthorized credit or debit card purchases can be considered identity theft. After all the names are on the card, they will be used to buy - yours!
Are you a victim of identity theft?
Ok, so identity theft can basically be what, but how do you know if you are really a victim of identity theft? There is no perfect "one size fits all" answer to this, but there are some obvious signs:
1. You receive a phone call or letter from a debt collector for an account that does not belong to you;
2. You receive a letter from the creditor telling you that the most recent credit card application or loan you did not recognize was rejected;
Your credit score is an unexplained nose diving; Egypt
You start to see a lot of new information that you don't know.
Many of my clients told me that they just ignored the previous debt collection calls they received that were not their accounts. Please don't do this! If you have someone calling you about an account that doesn't belong to you or has some suspicious credit reports, check back and get help. Identity theft victims have a large amount of online resources. Many of my clients can successfully solve their credit problems by doing some quick research on Google. However, others are often frustrated because there is too much information there, or they are experiencing obstacles and discouraged. Many people want to talk to a lawyer, but they think it will cause them to lose an arm and a leg. This rarely happens. Almost all lawyers provide free consultation, and many lawyers provide legal help without paying for out-of-pocket expenses. So if you feel overwhelmed and find a nearby professional, call them and get back your identity!
-Wayne Sinnett, Esq.
Orignal From: What is identity theft and how do you know if you are a victim?
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