In Los Angeles, credit identity theft is an alarming issue that affects many individuals. It can cause financial turmoil and long-term damage to your credit score. At Martin & Bontrager, APC, we are committed to helping victims of credit identity theft recover and protect their financial future.

What is Credit Identity Theft?

Credit identity theft happens when someone illegally uses your personal information, such as your Social Security number or credit card details, to open new accounts, make purchases, or commit other types of fraud. This can lead to financial losses and damage to your credit score.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Being aware of the warning signs of credit identity theft can help you take swift action:

• Unexpected Charges: Seeing charges on your credit card or bank statements that you don’t recognize.
• Credit Denials: Being denied credit or loans despite having a good credit history.
• Unknown Accounts: Finding new accounts or credit inquiries that you did not authorize.
• Debt Collector Calls: Receiving calls from debt collectors about debts you are unaware of.

Immediate Actions for Victims

If you suspect you are a victim of credit identity theft, take these steps immediately:

1. Report the Incident: File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and your local police department.
2. Contact Financial Institutions: Inform your bank and credit card companies about the fraud and consider freezing your accounts.
3. Review Credit Reports: Obtain your credit reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion to check for suspicious activity.
4. Place Fraud Alerts: Add a fraud alert to your credit reports to prevent further unauthorized activity.

Legal Help: Your Ally in Recovery

Handling credit identity theft can be daunting. The legal team at Martin & Bontrager, APC is here to support you through this challenging time. Our attorneys have extensive experience in credit identity theft cases and can guide you through the legal process with assurance.

Services Provided by Martin & Bontrager, APC

Our firm offers a range of services to address credit identity theft:

• Investigating Fraud: Conducting a thorough investigation to identify the culprits and collect evidence.
• Restoring Credit: Helping correct your credit reports and remove fraudulent accounts.
• Recovering Losses: Pursuing legal action against those responsible for the theft and seeking compensation for your losses.
• Ongoing Support: Providing continuous assistance and guidance throughout the legal process to ensure your rights are protected.

Preventing Future Identity Theft

While legal assistance is crucial after becoming a victim, there are preventive measures you can take to protect your identity:

• Secure Personal Information: Keep your Social Security number, passwords, and other sensitive information safe.
• Monitor Accounts Regularly: Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for suspicious activity.
• Use Strong Passwords: Create strong, unique passwords for your online accounts and update them regularly.
• Be Cautious Online: Avoid phishing scams and only share personal information on secure websites.

Credit identity theft is a serious issue that demands immediate attention and effective legal support. At Martin & Bontrager, APC, we are dedicated to helping you reclaim your financial stability and protect your rights. If you suspect you are a victim of credit identity theft, contact us today for a consultation.