Discovering you are the victim of identity theft can be an overwhelming and often devastating experience. In many instances, you may feel isolated, confused, and unsure of how to proceed. One thing many people aren’t sure about is whether or not they need to report these matters to the police. If you are the victim of identity theft in California, understanding whether or not you need to report identity theft is critical. Keep reading to learn more and discover why it’s in your best interest to connect with a Los Angeles, California identity theft lawyer to help you navigate these complex matters.
What Are the Impacts of Identity Theft?
When someone uses your identity, it can be incredibly disruptive. Unfortunately, there are many impacts you may suffer as a result. In general, you’ll find that thieves most often use your personal information to sign up for accounts or take out loans with no intention of making payments. As a result, this can negatively impact your credit score. When your credit score drops, you’ll find that you may be unable to take out loans or get approved for mortgages, and it can even impact your employment opportunities.
Aside from the financial impacts of identity theft, in some serious instances, you may find that thieves use your information to commit crimes. For example, they may present your documentation to police, write fraudulent checks in your name, or assume your identity when arrested As a result, you may be unfairly held in contempt of court or charged with a crime you had no part in.
When Do I Have to Report Identity Theft to the Police?
Reporting identity theft to the police may seem fruitless, especially if you are unsure who the thief is. After all, they likely aren’t in the same state or even country as you. However, there are certain instances where filing a police report after your identity theft is beneficial. These include:
- When you know who committed the theft
- A creditor requires a police report for their internal investigation
- You have specific information or evidence that can aid a law enforcement investigation
- Your information was used for criminal purposes
Even though it’s not required to file a police report if you are a victim of identity theft, it may be in your best interest to do so. Additionally, you should consider connecting with an experienced identity theft victim attorney who can help you through the process of disputing incorrect information on your report and fighting to have it removed. Similarly, they can provide guidance as to whether or not filing a report is in your best interest.
At Los Angeles Legal Solutions, we understand how complex these issues can be. That’s why our team is dedicated to helping those who have had their identity compromised reclaim their information and mitigate damages. Connect with us today to discuss how we can help you through these matters.
