Ensuring your finances are in order is critical as a consumer. As such, it’s necessary to understand the importance of looking for the signs of identity theft that can impact you. If you’re unsure what signs to look for, the following blog can help you learn the indications that your identity has been compromised. Additionally, you’ll discover what signs you should look for and why it’s critical to reach out to a San Diego County identity theft lawyer who can guide you through these complicated issues.
How Does Identity Theft Happen and What Impact Does It Have?
Unfortunately, identity theft can happen in a litany of ways, as it can occur both online and offline. Methods hackers use to access your personal information include:
- “Shoulder surfing,” or when people will look over your shoulder while at an ATM, cash register, or while using financial apps on your phone
- Phishing or scam emails
- Hacking through viruses, malware, or accessing your Wi-Fi network
- Data breaches
- Physical theft, by stealing wallets or mail
Identity theft can have a significant impact on your life, as it can drain money out of your bank account, open loans in your name, or even steal your health insurance. As such, it’s imperative to understand the signs that something may be amiss to quickly mitigate damages.
What Signs Indicate My Identity Was Compromised?
Generally, some of the first signs that something is awry with your credit report include suspicious charges to your bank account or credit card, inquiries to your credit report, or receiving bills for purchases you never made. However, other signs that your identity has been compromised include, receiving calls or letters from debt collectors, you’ve hit your healthcare benefits early, you’re missing important mail or packages, you receive notice of a tax return in your name that you didn’t file, or you’re suddenly subject to an increased amount of robocalls or spam texts.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to take immediate action if you have reason to believe your identity has been impacted. The first thing you should do is freeze your credit and contact your financial institution to freeze your account. This will prevent further accounts from opening in your name and money from leaving your accounts.
Next, you should file a report with the Federal Trade Commission. They will provide you with a unique plan to reclaim your identity based on your circumstances. Additionally, filing this report can help if banks or other institutions require this as part of their investigation process.
Finally, you’ll want to connect with an experienced identity theft attorney from Barthel legal who can help you navigate these complicated issues. At our firm, we understand how important shielding your identity is. That’s why we will do everything possible to assist you through these matters. Connect with us today to learn how we can assist you.
