If you discover that your identity has been compromised, you’ll likely hear a litany of advice informing you to “monitor your information.” However, you may not know what accounts or details to keep an eye on. As such, the following blog explores what information you must monitor if you believe your identity is at risk. Additionally, you’ll discover when it’s in your best interest to connect with a Los Angeles, California identity theft attorney to explore your legal options if you need assistance reclaiming your information.
How Does Identity Theft Happen?
Identity theft occurs when someone accesses your personal, sensitive information. Often, they will use this for financial gain, such as opening accounts or taking out loans in your name, so they do not have to bear the financial burden associated with them. However, you may find that identity theft can also occur if someone uses your credit or debit cards without permission. In serious instances, someone may use your identity to commit a criminal offense.
Thieves can access this information in several ways, such as hacking into online databases that store consumer details or scamming unknowing individuals. Most commonly, these scams are done through phishing, which is a term used to describe the act of sending out inconspicuous emails or texts that appear as if they are from a legitimate company. By clicking a link, you’ll be prompted to sign into what you believe to be a real website when in actuality, it’s a fake site used to gain your information.
What Information Must I Monitor?
Whether you were informed by an online retailer that your information was compromised in a data breach or your sensitive mail was stolen, you’ll need to monitor certain information to look for signs of identity theft or unauthorized accounts.
Generally, the first thing you’ll want to frequently check is your credit report. This will alert you to any fraudulent accounts opened in your name. Staying on top of checking reports can help you act quickly should false information appear on your report, which may make disputing the inclusion of the information easier.
Additionally, you’ll want to keep an eye on your financial accounts, like banking and credit card information. You should review your statements when you receive them to ensure that nothing is amiss. If you notice unauthorized charges, this may be an indication that someone is using your information. Additionally, you may want to set up purchase alerts, so you can be notified when your cards are used for large purchases. This can help you quickly dispute or block the charge.
As you can see, there are many considerations you must make if you have reason to believe your information was compromised. However, if you encounter problems, such as an uncooperative credit reporting agency, it’s imperative to connect with the team at Los Angeles Legal Solutions for additional assistance. We understand how complicated it can be to navigate these times on your own, which is why our team is ready to assist you. Contact us today to learn more about these matters.
