What is Identity Theft?

Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information for their own financial gain without your consent. Examples include unauthorized use of your credit card, taking out a student loan in your name, or intercepting your tax refund.

Identity theft can take many forms, and thieves are constantly finding new ways to access your sensitive information. Common methods include:

• Data Breaches: These can be intentional, such as hacking into a company's system to steal information, or accidental, like when company devices are stolen.

• 表单劫持：黑客将恶意代码植入网站表单以收集数据。

• 邮件盗窃：传统邮件对窃贼而言仍蕴含着宝贵信息。

• Phishing: Scammers trick you into providing personal information, often through fake emails, texts, or calls.

• 合成身份盗窃：盗贼使用真实的社会保障号码搭配虚假信息。

• 不安全的互联网连接：公共Wi-Fi网络可能成为窃贼入侵您计算机的通道。

How Does Identity Theft Happen?

Identity theft can range from sophisticated cybercrimes to using someone else’s personal information without their knowledge. Businesses relying on electronic data are particularly vulnerable, as electronic transactions allow thieves to steal information quickly, often leading to prolonged issues for the victims.

如果我发现可疑活动，该怎么办？

If you suspect identity theft, act immediately:

1. Contact the company where the suspicious activity occurred. Use contact information from billing statements, your credit report, or an internet search.

2. Place a fraud alert on your credit report. This prevents new accounts from being opened in your name without your consent.

   • 益博睿：请访问益博睿欺诈警报网站或致电 (800) 525-6285

   • 益百利：在线访问益百利欺诈警报

   • Trans Union： 在线访问Trans Union欺诈警报

What Do I Do if I Am a Victim of Identity Theft?

Identity theft is a widespread issue, with a new victim every two seconds. Various consumer protection statutes provide avenues to help you recover. Our experienced California identity theft lawyers can help you utilize these statutes to get the compensation you deserve.

What Laws Can Apply to Identity Theft Claims?

Several consumer protection laws can help victims of identity theft, including:

• 《公平债务催收行为法》(FDCPA)：保护消费者免受滥用债务催收行为的侵害。

• 《公平信用报告法》(FCRA)：协助从您的信用报告中删除欺诈账户。

• Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA): Stops automated calls.

• 《加利福尼亚州身份盗用法案》：保护个人信息，并为身份盗用提供补救措施。

• 侵犯隐私权：处理对个人隐私的重大侵犯行为。

What Do I Do if My Child is a Victim of Identity Theft?

Children are often targeted because they don't have credit histories. Parents can place credit freezes on their child’s credit reports to prevent new accounts from being opened.

What Types of Damages Can I Seek for Identity Theft Claims?

Successful identity theft claims can recover:

• 实际损害：包括经济损失（例如信贷被拒、利率上升）和精神损害（例如压力、挫败感、名誉受损）。

• 惩罚性赔偿：旨在惩罚被告并阻止类似行为。

• 律师费与诉讼费用：许多消费者保护法规允许以风险代理方式处理诉讼，这意味着消费者无需预付任何费用。

What if the Business Rejects My Identity Theft Claim?

Businesses often receive fake identity theft claims, making it difficult for legitimate victims. If your claim is rejected, it may be time to consult with an attorney.

Can I Afford an Attorney to Assist With My Identity Theft Claim?

Yes, most attorneys handling identity theft claims work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case.

How Can I Avoid Being the Victim of Identity Theft?

联邦贸易委员会建议：

• 定期查阅您的信用卡和银行对账单。

• 了解您的付款到期日。

• Reviewing health insurance statements for accuracy.

• 销毁含有个人信息的文件。

• 每年在annualcreditreport.com上查看您的信用报告。

虽然这些措施不能保证你不会成为受害者，但它们能显著降低你的风险。