Identity theft is a growing problem in the U.S. In fact, approximately 30 percent of all adults in the country will have their identities stolen at some point in their lives. In other words, identity theft is a very real threat to everyone. Luckily, there are steps that consumers can take to recognize and prevent identity theft. By learning how to spot the signs of identity theft early, it is possible to drastically lessen the impact that it can have on your life. In this article, we explain how to recognize and prevent identity theft.
Recognizing Identity Theft
The most effective way to deal with identity theft is to recognize it as soon as possible. And the best way to spot identity theft early is to regularly review your credit report. Your credit report details your current credit status. If you review your report and see something you don’t recognize, like a credit card you didn’t apply for, this is a sign that someone may have stolen your identity. However, your credit report is just one way to recognize identity theft. Additional signs that you may be an identity theft victim include:
- Receipt of bills for things you didn’t purchase or statements for credit cards you don’t recognize
- Denial for loans or credit cards despite a good credit history
- Unauthorized bank transactions
- Failure to receive certain bills or checks
- Receipt of notice that your private information was part of a data breach
- Receipt of unauthorized authentication messages by text or email for unknown accounts
Preventing Identity Theft
Although it isn’t possible to remain 100% safe from identity theft, there are several things you can do to reduce your risk of having your identity stolen, including:
- Shred important documents and bank statements that you don’t plan to save
- Avoid using public Wi-Fi
- Don’t carry your Social Security card in your wallet
- Use strong passwords
- Keep your personal information off social media
Contact a Consumer Class Action Attorney
If your identity has been stolen, there are specific steps you can take to begin repairing your life and finances—the most important of which is contacting an experienced consumer class action attorney. Identity theft is often caused by financial organizations and other businesses that fail to protect your personal information. When a financial organization or business provides a third party with access to your personal information without your permission, our experienced consumer class action attorney will work hard to ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions. Attorney Seth Lehrman has extensive investigative, litigation, and trial experience, and he is eager to provide you with effective representation in your identity theft class action lawsuit. In addition, our consumer class action team has the experience and resources required to fight major corporations and big businesses in court. Please contact us as soon as possible to begin your journey to financial recovery.