Having your identity stolen can be an overwhelming experience. However, with the right San Diego County identity theft lawyer in your corner, you can have peace of mind, knowing your case is in good hands. Contact Barthel Legal today so we can get started working on your case.
San Diego Lawyer | Defending Your Rights Against Identity Theft
Don’t let identity theft emotionally or financially ruin your life. Recover from identity theft and get the compensation you deserve. Contact the attorneys at Barthel Legal today for a free consultation. Whether you’re facing an issue of domestic identity theft, senior identity theft, disputing unauthorized charges, or otherwise, you can have confidence in your decision to turn to Barthel Legal for guidance. With their experience in consumer protection laws and dedication to providing quality legal representation, you can feel confident that your rights will be protected.
How Can an Identity Theft Lawyer Help Me?
Having a stolen identity can be a devastating experience, impacting both your finances and emotional well-being. Hiring an experienced identity theft lawyer is crucial to navigating the complexities of your case and ensuring your rights are safeguarded.
At Barthel Legal, our knowledgeable attorneys are experienced in identity theft cases and can assist you in the following ways:
- Providing expert legal advice and guidance tailored to your unique situation;
- Disputing debts that don’t belong to you;
- Investigating the details of your identity theft incident, gathering evidence, and building a strong case;
- Interacting with credit bureaus, financial institutions, and law enforcement agencies on your behalf;
- Crafting personalized strategies to recover your losses, restore your credit, and seek compensation;
- Representing you in negotiations, settlements, or court proceedings, fighting for your rights and best interests.
Types of Identity Theft
Identity theft can take various forms, each with its own implications. Understanding these types can help you recognize the signs and take appropriate measures to protect yourself. The common types of identity theft include:
- Financial Identity Theft: When someone uses your personal information to make unauthorized financial transactions or open credit accounts in your name.
- Medical Identity Theft: When someone uses your identity to obtain medical services, and prescriptions, or file fraudulent insurance claims.
- Criminal Identity Theft: When someone commits crimes using your identity, potentially resulting in wrongful arrests or a criminal record in your name.
- Domestic Identity Theft: Domestic identity theft is when someone within your household or someone with whom you have a close relationship steals your identity.
- Senior Identity Theft: Seniors are among the most vulnerable to identity theft. If you or a loved one is a victim, Barthel Legal is here to help.
Steps You Can Take to Protect Yourself and Start the Recovery Process
If you suspect that you are the victim of identity theft, it is essential to act quickly to minimize the damage and start the recovery process. Below are some steps you can take to protect yourself and start the recovery process:
- Contact your bank and credit card companies: If you suspect that your bank account or credit cards have been compromised, contact your bank and credit card companies immediately. They can freeze your accounts and issue new cards to prevent any further unauthorized charges. For example, if you notice charges on your credit card statement that you did not make, contact your credit card company right away. If these charges are on your debit card, oral disputes are sufficient. However, if the fraudulent charges are on your credit card, this dispute must be in writing sent to the address on your statement.
- Monitor your credit report: Regularly monitoring your credit report can help you detect any unauthorized activity or credit report errors. You are entitled to a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus once a year. Review your credit report for any accounts or inquiries that you do not recognize. For example, if you notice a new credit account on your credit report that you did not open, contact the credit bureau to dispute it.
- Consider placing a fraud alert or security freeze on your credit report: A fraud alert requires creditors to take extra steps to verify your identity before issuing credit in your name. A security freeze restricts access to your credit report, making it difficult for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name. For example, if you believe that your personal information has been compromised, you may consider placing a fraud alert or security freeze on your credit report.
- File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC): The FTC provides resources for victims of identity theft, including a recovery plan and an identity theft affidavit. The recovery plan can help you understand the steps you need to take to recover from identity theft, and the identity theft affidavit can be used to dispute fraudulent accounts or charges. For example, if you believe that you are the victim of identity theft, file a report with the FTC and follow their recovery plan.
- File a police report: Reporting the crime to the police can provide documentation that can help you dispute fraudulent accounts or charges. The police report can also help you clear your name if you are wrongfully accused of a crime committed by an identity thief. For example, if you discover that someone has opened a credit account in your name and made fraudulent charges, file a police report and provide it to your credit card company.
- Work with an experienced consumer protection attorney: An experienced consumer protection attorney can help you navigate the complex legal process of resolving identity theft. They can help you understand your rights under the law and develop a personalized strategy for resolving your case. For example, if you have been the victim of identity theft, Barthel Legal can provide you with legal representation and support to help you recover from the theft.
Identity Theft FAQ
What is a victim of identity theft?
Under the California Identity Theft Act, a “victim of identity theft” is defined as a person who had their personal identifying information used without authorization by another to obtain credit, goods, services, money, or property, and did not use or possess the credit, goods, services, money, or property obtained by the identity theft, and has submitted a Federal Trade Commission identity theft report. “Personal Identifying information” includes a person’s name, address, telephone number, driver’s license number, social security number, place of employment, employee identification number, mother’s maiden name, demand deposit account number, savings account number, or credit card number.
What should you do if you are a victim of identity theft?
Change passwords on your potentially affected accounts such as your email and all accounts which have the same login details. Get notified if there is a crime in the neighborhood or in the city.
How much does identity theft cost a person?
The ITRC says that victims typically lose under $500. The alleged losses in Identity Theft averaged $800.
Can I sue for identity theft in California?
In cases involving identity stolen from a person, you can obtain actual damages, attorney costs, and monetary damages. A plaintiff can seek up to $30,000 in civil penalties.
Can I dispute identity theft?
California Identity Theft Act (CITA) provides consumers with several rights that protect them in the event of identity theft. These rights are essential for victims to understand as they can be critical in resolving their case. Below are some examples of the rights that victims have as it relates to identity theft and data breaches and how they can help:
- You have the right to be informed of the theft of personal information: This means that if a business discovers a data breach that may have exposed your personal information, they must inform you of the breach in writing. For example, if a retailer’s computer system is hacked and your personal information is stolen, they must inform you of the breach and the steps they are taking to protect your information.
- Right to obtain information about the theft: You have the right to obtain information about the theft of your personal information, such as the date of the theft and the type of information that was stolen. This information can be helpful in identifying potential areas of exposure and in preventing further harm. For example, if you discover that your Social Security number was stolen, you can take steps to monitor your credit report and bank accounts more closely.
- Right to have the erroneous information removed from credit reports: If your credit report contains inaccurate information as a result of identity theft, you have the right to have that information removed. For example, if an identity thief opens a credit card account in your name and fails to make payments, the delinquent account may appear on your credit report. With the help of an attorney, you can dispute the account and have it removed from your credit report.
- Right to prevent businesses from reporting fraudulent information: If you have been the victim of identity theft, you can request that a business not report fraudulent information to a credit bureau. For example, if an identity thief uses your name and Social Security number to apply for credit, you can request that the business not report the account to a credit bureau.
- Right to file a police report: If you are the victim of identity theft, you have the right to file a police report. This report can be helpful in documenting the theft and in preventing further harm. For example, if an identity thief opens a credit card account in your name, you can file a police report and provide it to your credit card company to prove that you did not open the account.
- Right to Obtain Credit Applications: If you are a victim of identity theft and a criminal has opened, or attempted to open, credit in your name, you have the right to obtain the application that was filed out so that you can review it to see what information they used in the application.
- The Right to Set Aside Default Judgments: If you are a victim of identity theft and you discovered that a default judgment has been entered in your name, then you have the right to set it aside. The courts understand that victims of identity theft may never receive notice of a court proceeding since the address used in the credit application is likely not their own. Therefore, laws were put in place to help these victims obtain relief much easier.
For a sample identity theft dispute letter to credit bureaus, click here. For a sample identity theft dispute letter to a company for fraudulent account creation, click here. Finally, for a sample identity theft dispute letter to a company for fraudulent charges made on your credit or debit card, click here.
Why Choose Barthel Legal for Your Identity Theft Case?
When it comes to your identity and financial well-being, choosing the right identity theft lawyer is crucial. Here’s why Barthel Legal stands out as the trusted choice for identity theft victims:
- Experience: Our attorneys have years of experience specifically handling identity theft cases. We understand the complexities involved and have a proven track record of achieving favorable outcomes for our clients.
- Expertise: We know the ins and outs of identity theft law and stay updated on the latest legal developments, ensuring we provide you with the most effective and informed representation.
- Personalized Approach: We understand that every identity theft case is unique. Our attorneys take the time to understand your situation, tailor strategies to your specific needs, and provide personalized attention throughout the legal process.
- Strong Advocacy: We are relentless advocates for our client’s rights. Our attorneys will fight vigorously on your behalf, pursuing every available legal avenue to seek justice and fair compensation.
- Client-Centered Service: At Barthel Legal, our client’s well-being is our top priority. We provide compassionate support, clear communication, and regular case updates, ensuring you feel informed and supported at every step.
Protect Your Rights
Identity theft can have long-lasting consequences on your financial stability, creditworthiness, and peace of mind. At Barthel Legal, we are dedicated to helping individuals like you who have fallen victim to identity theft. Our experienced attorneys will guide you through the legal process, advocate for your rights, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Whether it be under the Fair Credit Reporting Act or debt collection laws, we have litigated it and can help. Take action today and contact Barthel Legal to take control of your situation and begin your journey toward recovery.
Trustworthy Legal Representation for Identity Theft Cases
When your identity is stolen, you need a legal team that understands the intricacies of identity theft laws and can effectively represent your interests. At Barthel Legal, we have built a strong reputation for our expertise in identity theft cases. Our attorneys are well-versed in the relevant laws and regulations, and we have a deep understanding of how to navigate the complexities of these cases. Trust us to provide the diligent and skilled legal representation you need to protect your rights and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Barthel Legal
Don’t let identity theft disrupt your life any longer. Take the first step towards reclaiming your identity and protecting your rights. Contact an identity theft lawyer from Barthel Legal today to schedule a free consultation. During the consultation, we will review the details of your case, answer your questions, and outline the legal options available to you. Let a seasoned identity theft lawyer from our firm help you navigate the legal complexities and fight for the justice you deserve.
Having your identity stolen can be an overwhelming experience. However, with the right San Diego County identity theft lawyer in your corner, you can have peace of mind, knowing your case is in good hands. Contact Barthel Legal today so we can get started working on your case.
San Diego Lawyer | Defending Your Rights Against Identity Theft
Don’t let identity theft emotionally or financially ruin your life. Recover from identity theft and get the compensation you deserve. Contact the attorneys at Barthel Legal today for a free consultation. Whether you’re facing an issue of domestic identity theft, senior identity theft, disputing unauthorized charges, or otherwise, you can have confidence in your decision to turn to Barthel Legal for guidance. With their experience in consumer protection laws and dedication to providing quality legal representation, you can feel confident that your rights will be protected.
How Can an Identity Theft Lawyer Help Me?
Having a stolen identity can be a devastating experience, impacting both your finances and emotional well-being. Hiring an experienced identity theft lawyer is crucial to navigating the complexities of your case and ensuring your rights are safeguarded.
At Barthel Legal, our knowledgeable attorneys are experienced in identity theft cases and can assist you in the following ways:
- Providing expert legal advice and guidance tailored to your unique situation;
- Disputing debts that don’t belong to you;
- Investigating the details of your identity theft incident, gathering evidence, and building a strong case;
- Interacting with credit bureaus, financial institutions, and law enforcement agencies on your behalf;
- Crafting personalized strategies to recover your losses, restore your credit, and seek compensation;
- Representing you in negotiations, settlements, or court proceedings, fighting for your rights and best interests.
Types of Identity Theft
Identity theft can take various forms, each with its own implications. Understanding these types can help you recognize the signs and take appropriate measures to protect yourself. The common types of identity theft include:
- Financial Identity Theft: When someone uses your personal information to make unauthorized financial transactions or open credit accounts in your name.
- Medical Identity Theft: When someone uses your identity to obtain medical services, and prescriptions, or file fraudulent insurance claims.
- Criminal Identity Theft: When someone commits crimes using your identity, potentially resulting in wrongful arrests or a criminal record in your name.
- Domestic Identity Theft: Domestic identity theft is when someone within your household or someone with whom you have a close relationship steals your identity.
- Senior Identity Theft: Seniors are among the most vulnerable to identity theft. If you or a loved one is a victim, Barthel Legal is here to help.
Steps You Can Take to Protect Yourself and Start the Recovery Process
If you suspect that you are the victim of identity theft, it is essential to act quickly to minimize the damage and start the recovery process. Below are some steps you can take to protect yourself and start the recovery process:
- Contact your bank and credit card companies: If you suspect that your bank account or credit cards have been compromised, contact your bank and credit card companies immediately. They can freeze your accounts and issue new cards to prevent any further unauthorized charges. For example, if you notice charges on your credit card statement that you did not make, contact your credit card company right away. If these charges are on your debit card, oral disputes are sufficient. However, if the fraudulent charges are on your credit card, this dispute must be in writing sent to the address on your statement.
- Monitor your credit report: Regularly monitoring your credit report can help you detect any unauthorized activity or credit report errors. You are entitled to a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus once a year. Review your credit report for any accounts or inquiries that you do not recognize. For example, if you notice a new credit account on your credit report that you did not open, contact the credit bureau to dispute it.
- Consider placing a fraud alert or security freeze on your credit report: A fraud alert requires creditors to take extra steps to verify your identity before issuing credit in your name. A security freeze restricts access to your credit report, making it difficult for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name. For example, if you believe that your personal information has been compromised, you may consider placing a fraud alert or security freeze on your credit report.
- File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC): The FTC provides resources for victims of identity theft, including a recovery plan and an identity theft affidavit. The recovery plan can help you understand the steps you need to take to recover from identity theft, and the identity theft affidavit can be used to dispute fraudulent accounts or charges. For example, if you believe that you are the victim of identity theft, file a report with the FTC and follow their recovery plan.
- File a police report: Reporting the crime to the police can provide documentation that can help you dispute fraudulent accounts or charges. The police report can also help you clear your name if you are wrongfully accused of a crime committed by an identity thief. For example, if you discover that someone has opened a credit account in your name and made fraudulent charges, file a police report and provide it to your credit card company.
- Work with an experienced consumer protection attorney: An experienced consumer protection attorney can help you navigate the complex legal process of resolving identity theft. They can help you understand your rights under the law and develop a personalized strategy for resolving your case. For example, if you have been the victim of identity theft, Barthel Legal can provide you with legal representation and support to help you recover from the theft.
Identity Theft FAQ
What is a victim of identity theft?
Under the California Identity Theft Act, a “victim of identity theft” is defined as a person who had their personal identifying information used without authorization by another to obtain credit, goods, services, money, or property, and did not use or possess the credit, goods, services, money, or property obtained by the identity theft, and has submitted a Federal Trade Commission identity theft report. “Personal Identifying information” includes a person’s name, address, telephone number, driver’s license number, social security number, place of employment, employee identification number, mother’s maiden name, demand deposit account number, savings account number, or credit card number.
What should you do if you are a victim of identity theft?
Change passwords on your potentially affected accounts such as your email and all accounts which have the same login details. Get notified if there is a crime in the neighborhood or in the city.
How much does identity theft cost a person?
The ITRC says that victims typically lose under $500. The alleged losses in Identity Theft averaged $800.
Can I sue for identity theft in California?
In cases involving identity stolen from a person, you can obtain actual damages, attorney costs, and monetary damages. A plaintiff can seek up to $30,000 in civil penalties.
Can I dispute identity theft?
California Identity Theft Act (CITA) provides consumers with several rights that protect them in the event of identity theft. These rights are essential for victims to understand as they can be critical in resolving their case. Below are some examples of the rights that victims have as it relates to identity theft and data breaches and how they can help:
- You have the right to be informed of the theft of personal information: This means that if a business discovers a data breach that may have exposed your personal information, they must inform you of the breach in writing. For example, if a retailer’s computer system is hacked and your personal information is stolen, they must inform you of the breach and the steps they are taking to protect your information.
- Right to obtain information about the theft: You have the right to obtain information about the theft of your personal information, such as the date of the theft and the type of information that was stolen. This information can be helpful in identifying potential areas of exposure and in preventing further harm. For example, if you discover that your Social Security number was stolen, you can take steps to monitor your credit report and bank accounts more closely.
- Right to have the erroneous information removed from credit reports: If your credit report contains inaccurate information as a result of identity theft, you have the right to have that information removed. For example, if an identity thief opens a credit card account in your name and fails to make payments, the delinquent account may appear on your credit report. With the help of an attorney, you can dispute the account and have it removed from your credit report.
- Right to prevent businesses from reporting fraudulent information: If you have been the victim of identity theft, you can request that a business not report fraudulent information to a credit bureau. For example, if an identity thief uses your name and Social Security number to apply for credit, you can request that the business not report the account to a credit bureau.
- Right to file a police report: If you are the victim of identity theft, you have the right to file a police report. This report can be helpful in documenting the theft and in preventing further harm. For example, if an identity thief opens a credit card account in your name, you can file a police report and provide it to your credit card company to prove that you did not open the account.
- Right to Obtain Credit Applications: If you are a victim of identity theft and a criminal has opened, or attempted to open, credit in your name, you have the right to obtain the application that was filed out so that you can review it to see what information they used in the application.
- The Right to Set Aside Default Judgments: If you are a victim of identity theft and you discovered that a default judgment has been entered in your name, then you have the right to set it aside. The courts understand that victims of identity theft may never receive notice of a court proceeding since the address used in the credit application is likely not their own. Therefore, laws were put in place to help these victims obtain relief much easier.
For a sample identity theft dispute letter to credit bureaus, click here. For a sample identity theft dispute letter to a company for fraudulent account creation, click here. Finally, for a sample identity theft dispute letter to a company for fraudulent charges made on your credit or debit card, click here.
Why Choose Barthel Legal for Your Identity Theft Case?
When it comes to your identity and financial well-being, choosing the right identity theft lawyer is crucial. Here’s why Barthel Legal stands out as the trusted choice for identity theft victims:
- Experience: Our attorneys have years of experience specifically handling identity theft cases. We understand the complexities involved and have a proven track record of achieving favorable outcomes for our clients.
- Expertise: We know the ins and outs of identity theft law and stay updated on the latest legal developments, ensuring we provide you with the most effective and informed representation.
- Personalized Approach: We understand that every identity theft case is unique. Our attorneys take the time to understand your situation, tailor strategies to your specific needs, and provide personalized attention throughout the legal process.
- Strong Advocacy: We are relentless advocates for our client’s rights. Our attorneys will fight vigorously on your behalf, pursuing every available legal avenue to seek justice and fair compensation.
- Client-Centered Service: At Barthel Legal, our client’s well-being is our top priority. We provide compassionate support, clear communication, and regular case updates, ensuring you feel informed and supported at every step.
Protect Your Rights
Identity theft can have long-lasting consequences on your financial stability, creditworthiness, and peace of mind. At Barthel Legal, we are dedicated to helping individuals like you who have fallen victim to identity theft. Our experienced attorneys will guide you through the legal process, advocate for your rights, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Whether it be under the Fair Credit Reporting Act or debt collection laws, we have litigated it and can help. Take action today and contact Barthel Legal to take control of your situation and begin your journey toward recovery.
Trustworthy Legal Representation for Identity Theft Cases
When your identity is stolen, you need a legal team that understands the intricacies of identity theft laws and can effectively represent your interests. At Barthel Legal, we have built a strong reputation for our expertise in identity theft cases. Our attorneys are well-versed in the relevant laws and regulations, and we have a deep understanding of how to navigate the complexities of these cases. Trust us to provide the diligent and skilled legal representation you need to protect your rights and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Barthel Legal
Don’t let identity theft disrupt your life any longer. Take the first step towards reclaiming your identity and protecting your rights. Contact an identity theft lawyer from Barthel Legal today to schedule a free consultation. During the consultation, we will review the details of your case, answer your questions, and outline the legal options available to you. Let a seasoned identity theft lawyer from our firm help you navigate the legal complexities and fight for the justice you deserve.
