According to a recent article in the Los Angeles Times, identity theft is increasingly becoming a gateway for criminals who are intent on more serious crimes. Identity thieves are now using innocent people’s identities to commit crimes ranging from child abuse to terrorism. This kind of identity theft is more insidious than theft used for poor credit history card fraud. The victims often have no idea that identity theft has been committed until it’s too late; for example, a routine traffic stop can turn into a nightmarish arrest for a crime you never committed. Once in jail, you have to try to prove your innocence while still maintaining that you are, in fact, who you say you are.
A recent bust on an identity theft ring in New York City turned up over 200 new identities for sale, complete with drivers’ licenses and birth certificates. These identities were offered for sale with prices ranging from $7,000 to $10,000.The identity thieves included a convicted sex offender, a repeat drunk driver, and a felon convicted of drug trafficking. While some states, such as California, offer an identity thefts victim database, victims in other states must take slow, old-fashioned steps to confirm their innocence. There is currently no nationwide database for victims of identity thefts, although criminals of this nature often take to the road.
Following are the steps you should take if your identity has been stolen:
File a Police Report
File a police report as soon as you know your identity has been stolen. Many financial institutions require one in order to protect your accounts from suspicious drafts. In the case of someone using your identity to commit felony crimes, it’s even more crucial. Ask to have the report taken in person rather than online or over the phone. If your local police department does not cooperate or take the matter seriously, try your county sheriff or another jurisdiction.
Get Written Proof That Your Name is Clear
You will also want to get written proof that your name has been cleared. Get an official document from the police and keep it with you at all times. You can use this documentation if you are given a background check at work, or if you get stopped by the police for a routine traffic stop. Having proof that you were a victim of identity theft can save a lot of frustration down the line.
Don’t Give Out Your Social Security Number
Finally, never give out your social security number unless it’s absolutely necessary. Never give it out over the phone or online. Try to use only the last four digits if some entity, such as your doctor’s office, requires it for verification.
