Making a Report of an Identity Theft Crime
Identity theft is the act of stealing one’s identity including the name, address, telephone number, credit cards, mother’s maiden name and other pertinent information. In most cases, it is not only the identity stolen. Identity thieves may also steal properties secured with the accounts of the owner. This is very serious case and is recognized as fraud.
You can be a victim of this crime as there are no particular requirements for identity theft. College students, senior citizens, and even small companies are included as victims of this crime. It is vital that you file a report once you are victimized.
Review Your Accounts Often
The law changed in 2005, allowing anyone to review all their accounts or credit reports annually without requiring payment for such. You can also have a free credit report within 60 days if your previous credit is denied. Check for new accounts opened without your permission, collections that have been filed against you that you where unaware of, even applications that you did not file but that have been denied. All of these activities indicate that someone is using your identity
There are several services that offer monitoring and monthly reviews of your credit report for a small fee. With this monthly review, you will have the chance of immediately identifying whether there is an unauthorized use of your accounts. You will be able identify them more quickly, and therefore, you will be able to act swiftly to prevent further damage to your accounts.
Already a Victim?
What happens if your identity has already been stolen? You will need to do a report; however, you will undergo different systematic steps before you can report this particular crime. Police do not have an active role and cannot really do much for you in this instance. You may have a lot of paperwork to complete and send to all the companies and agencies that are involved in the crime.
Where are you going to report the crime? Do you have the knowledge that you need to fill out the forms for this kind of report? Where are you going to send them?
You may report it to the police. However, unless you know the person who committed the crime, and you have proof, you will not receive much reaction to the crime. There are a number of federal and state agencies that have jurisdiction, depending upon the type of crime committed. The Federal Trade Commission has different agencies that can treat cases like identity theft issues, but you will still need to contact these agencies.
It will take time to clear out all the errors made to your name, that is why you need to start with the process as soon as you figure out the crime that was done in your identity. Start reporting the crime to the different agencies, companies, credit bureaus and investigators to begin the process of correcting the inaccuracies.
You should keep a file of all contact with the agencies, companies, credit bureaus and investigators – keeping a record of all the written correspondence and relevant conversations including the date, agency, contact person, company and summary of all the information discussed.
Original copies and the sent out copies must be kept carefully. It will be significant in the investigation of the crime. You can also send them certified mail, return receipt requested, that way you will have the record of the date when the letters were received.
It may take time to clear your name but you will get over it. You will start a new life full of confidence that you will never encounter crimes like this anymore. Remember that patience and determination is the key to the resolution of this crime.
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