When denied a loan or credit card, you may be left confused. However, upon reviewing your credit report, you may find a significant amount of incorrect information littering your report and a devastated credit score. Unfortunately, you may realize that you are a victim of identity theft. This can feel like your world has shattered, and you may not know how to recover. If you are a victim, the following blog highlights how a Los Angeles, California identity theft lawyer can assist you through these challenging times.
How Can an Identity Be Compromised?
Identity theft occurs when someone takes your sensitive information and uses it to commit fraud. These details include your full name, birth date, phone number, address, or Social Security Number. Those with this information will often open accounts and take out loans in your name to make large purchases and leave them unpaid, putting you in debt you don’t owe with a destroyed credit rating.
Thieves can access this information in a number of ways, but the majority of identity theft occurs online. Unfortunately, financial institutions moving to online banking and the emergence of social media make it easier for hackers to obtain sensitive information. Additionally, the use of unsecured Wi-Fi networks, data breaches, and phishing scams can lead to your details ending up in the hands of the wrong person.
While most identity theft happens online, physical theft can impact victims. In some instances, thieves will steal mail or rummage through garbage as this can contain personal information. Additionally, stealing a wallet with identifying information or breaking into someone’s home can lead to accessing personal details to commit fraud.
How Can an Attorney Aid Identity Theft Victims?
If you are the victim of identity theft, understanding why it’s essential to enlist the assistance of an attorney is critical. Unfortunately, navigating this process on your own can be exceptionally difficult, as trying to deal with creditors, lenders, and financial institutions can be complex. As such, having legal representation ensures that you have an attorney to advocate on your behalf. Not only will it be easier for them to speak with the right people regarding the fraud, but they also understand the law. This ensures that your rights are protected in these instances.
Similarly, they can help you file the necessary paperwork to ensure all documents are completed with the correct information and filed before their deadlines to avoid setbacks.
Finally, an attorney can help you fight for compensation if you have suffered damages because of the identity theft you’ve experienced. For example, if your information was leaked in a data breach, an attorney can help you recover compensation from the company if their security systems were not strong enough to prevent a cyber attack.
At Los Angeles Legal Solutions, we understand how stressful being the victim of identity theft can be. That’s why our team is committed to working with you to help you through these difficult times. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you.
