Learn Signs of Identity Theft and How to NOT Become a Victim

Identity theft occurs on a day-to-day basis, as identity thieves steal personal information and financial information by rummaging through your trash, looking through your mail, spying on you online, stealing your purse or wallet, obtaining your credit report, or even by installing a skimming device on an ATM machine. Other instances have occurred when a thief pretends to be a company representative claiming there is a problem with your account and they need to verify some information in hopes that you will give them your personal information over the phone.

Identity theft in Iowa continues to be a real problem that affects many people not only in this state but also throughout this nation.

What Do Identity Thieves Do With Your Information?

• Open up new credit accounts and/or bank accounts in your name
• Charge on your existing accounts and withdraw money from your accounts
• Apply for a job and file a fraudulent tax return in your name
• Purchase a car in your name
• File for bankruptcy in your name
• Open a new phone or wireless service in your name
• And more

How Do I Not Become a Victim of Identity Theft?

The best way to NOT become a victim of identity theft is by shredding credit card applications, credit card statements, and bank statements. Also, make sure you secure your computer with firewalls, and update your virus protection regularly. Do not give out personal information over the phone, do not carry your social security card in your wallet, and never let your mail sit out overnight.

If you have become a victim of identity theft, order a copy of your credit report from all three credit bureaus: Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax. Also, file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission, the Iowa Attorney General, and speak with a skilled Iowa consumer fraud attorney to find out your rights.

Identity theft can be very hard to bounce back from, as it not only drains a victim of their money, but it may ruin credit reports, and lead to debt collectors and bankruptcies. Often, victims of identity theft find themselves in a horrible situation that involves stress and time to clean up the mess. If you or someone you know has been a victim of identity theft in Iowa, call the skilled Cedar Rapids consumer fraud attorneys at the law offices of Brady Preston Gronlund at (319) 866-9277 for a free legal evaluation. You may be entitled to financial compensation as a victim of consumer fraud in Iowa.