When you are the victim of identity theft, it can lead to unnecessary stress and anxiety. However, discovering that a relative is the thief can make matters even worse, as this can create additional stress surrounding these circumstances. If this reflects your circumstances, understanding how to proceed with the help of a San Diego County domestic identity theft lawyer is critical. The following blog explores how this occurs and what legal options you can take to recover your identity after a relative commits identity theft.
How Do Family Members Get Access to Sensitive Information?
Many may never discover who has stolen their identity, as sophisticated hackers around the globe can hack accounts and websites to access this information. However, family members may have a much easier time getting this information, as they have access to your personal information. For example, they know your full name, birthday, address, and phone number.
Additionally, if you invite family to your home, this allows them to snoop around and look for other information that can aid in their crimes. For example, they may steal mail containing sensitive information or rummage through your documents to access details like account passwords or your Social Security number.
Unfortunately, the most at-risk groups are the elderly and children. This is because older adults cannot check their accounts as frequently, while many parents do not review their children’s credit scores because they are under 18.
What Can I Do If a Relative Commits Identity Theft?
If you find that a relative is to blame for inaccurate information impacting your credit report, understanding how to proceed is critical. It’s essential to begin by contacting the credit reporting agencies to freeze your credit to prevent any new accounts from opening in your name.
You should also file a police report. Though it’s not always necessary, it can aid significantly in recovering your identity and removing fraudulent information from your accounts. If you obtain a police report, you’ll want to include this document when you file a report with the Federal Trade Commission. Reporting the theft to the FTC generates a personalized recovery report to help you repair your credit.
Next, you’ll want to file a dispute with the credit reporting agencies to have the incorrect information removed from your report, as it’s likely impacting your credit score. If you filed a police report, attaching this document can help aid in the removal of fraudulent information.
Finally, you’ll want to contact an experienced identity theft attorney. This is crucial to ensuring you have legal representation throughout this complex and often frustrating process. The team at Barthel Legal understands the impact identity theft can have on a consumer. That’s why our team is ready to assist. We will do everything possible to help you restore your credit while pursuing compensation for damages you may have faced. Contact us today to learn more.
