With a record number of victims in 2016, identity theft is becoming more prevalent in the United States and the growing trend will get worse before it gets better. People have to work harder at protecting their identity as our identities become more accessible to thieves. In the unfortunate event that your identity is stolen, the criminals can be challenging to track down. Today, we at Advanced Private Investigators & Security of Miami, FL would like to further elaborate on identity theft and how private investigators can help.

Types of Identity Theft

There are several types of identity theft that include:
Criminal Identity Theft – Other criminals using other’s identity to evade charges.
Financial Identity Theft – The use of your identity is used to access and use your money (the most common).
Identity Cloning – In order to conceal their own identity, a person assumes your identity.
Medical Identity Theft – When someone assumes your identity to use and access the insurance and healthcare benefits.
Child Identity Theft – For personal gain, the person uses a minor’s identity.

Fraud Alert

The first step to take is you must make reports to every applicable agency where you believe fraud has occurred when you suspect identity theft, and prior to hiring a private investigator. Be sure to place a fraud alert with your credit reporting agencies so you do not take any more problems from the crime. The local law enforcement should also be contact on addition to the FTC. Making a timely police report is important even with the intentions of hiring a private investigator.

Identity Theft Investigation

No matter which identity theft was committed, they are serious crimes that can have lasting effects on the victim. A private investigator may prove useful in the event your identity has been compromised. A private investigator can help determine if your identity has been stolen, the purpose of it, and who is responsible. To find out who committed the crime and how they did it, a private investigator can help. You can pursue punitive damages legally and/or a criminal complaint once the facts and evidence are found. It can also help you recover financial loss in addition to peace of mind and a sense of justice. You can better protect yourself by taking preventative measures that will ensure your identity won’t be stolen again once you know how it was possible.

Identity Theft Recovery Plan

Though it is certainly possible, recovering from identity theft can be a long process. Trying to resolve identity theft cases, according to the estimate of the FTC, takes more than 200 hours spent over 18 months. Don’t be afraid to contact a counselor to help work through the feelings of distrust, resentment, vulnerability, anger, and betrayal, among others, that you may be feeling as the emotional toll can be significant. The mental health needs to take priority.

Private Investigator & Security Services in Greater Miami, Sunny Isles, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton & Miami Gardens Florida

Though it can take time to rebuild your identity, Advanced Private Investigators & Security of Miami, FL can help by performing an investigation into why and who took over your identity in any capacity. Call us today to get started and be sure to file with the FTC and local law enforcement.