Identity Theft

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What You Should Know

For criminals, identity theft is a relatively low-risk, high-reward endeavor. Thieves are difficult to apprehend — and even when caught, are seldom prosecuted.

For victims, it can take months or years and thousands of dollars to clear their good name and credit record. In the meantime, they may be refused loans, lose job opportunities and even be arrested for crimes they did not commit.

That is why it is important to understand what identity theft is, how it happens and how to protect yourself. If you become a victim, your best defense is to recognize it quickly and take immediate action to mitigate its effects. To do so, you must know how to detect identity theft and how to respond if your information is stolen. Do not hesitate to seek appropriate professional advice if legal issues should arise regarding your specific situation.

What Is Identity Theft?

Identity thieves work in many ways. They may:

• Open fraudulent bank or credit card accounts in your name, then write bad checks or incur charges.



• Change your billing address, incur charges on your existing credit card accounts and order new credit cards. Because you never receive the bills, you are unlikely to recognize the problem for some time.



• Use your good credit to secure loans.



• Establish wireless phone service in your name.



• Purchase vehicles by securing vehicle loans in your name.



• Use your name and background information to obtain employment.



• Use your name during an arrest for crimes ranging from traffic violations to felonies. If they are released from custody and fail to appear for their court date, an arrest warrant may be issued in your name.

Identity thieves are hard to recognize because they do not necessarily fit a specific profile. An offender could be a complete stranger, a criminally minded cashier or service provider, a neighbor or even a family member.

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