Having your identity stolen can prove incredibly traumatic. You may suffer increased telemarketer harassment, end up with background check errors, or have trouble passing employer background checks or landlord background checks. Unfortunately, it can be a long process to have your identity restored and get help. Working with a Mississippi identity theft attorney can help you learn more about your next steps and provide you with essential support.
What to Do If Your Identity is Stolen
If you have your identity stolen, there are several steps you need to take immediately.
- Notify your identity theft insurance, if you have it, immediately.
- File a report with the Federal Trade Commission.
- Contact any companies that may need to be notified.
- Contact your local police department for vital support.
- Freeze your credit, place a fraud alert on your credit reports, and review your existing reports for any strange accounts.
- Tighten security on all of your accounts since the thief may be able to access more of those accounts than you think.
Dealing with identity theft on your own can prove incredibly frustrating and traumatic. Having an experienced identity theft attorney on your side, on the other hand, can make it easier to manage the many challenges that may come your way while you deal with identity theft. Contact an attorney as soon as possible to learn what protection is available for identity theft victims.
Laws That Protect Identity Theft Victims
Identity theft is a serious crime and can cause immense trauma for the victim. You may struggle to deal with background check errors or bankruptcy reporting errors. Your entire life may feel like it has been put on hold since you may have trouble securing a line of credit or moving into a new property while dealing with identity theft challenges.
Fortunately, several laws aim to help protect the victims of identity theft.
Identity Theft Enforcement and Restitution Act of 2008
According to the Identity Theft Enforcement and Restitution Act, the thief can be ordered to pay restitution, including an amount to cover the time the victim had to spend dealing with the identity theft.
The Crime Victims Act
The Crime Victims Act establishes victims’ rights in federal court proceedings, including the right to timely proceedings and timely payment of restitution for your losses. In addition, you have the right to be reasonably heard during the course of the trial.