Identity Theft in Chandler, AZ

Reporting by the AARP says 41 million people were victims of identity fraud in 2021. These unfortunate individuals lost $52 billion to this illegal activity.

Have you discovered that you became the target of this type of fraud in Chandler? Then you may need a local identity theft lawyer to clear your name and the red tape. The information in this article will help you identify options and connect you with an experienced legal counselor.

What Is Identity Theft?

Identity theft is a prevalent crime in today’s world. Criminals constantly devise new methods to steal personal information. These crimes involve fraud by using your data, such as your Social Security or driver’s license number.

Identity theft can lead to various dishonest activities. It can result in someone opening accounts, filing fake tax returns, and making fraudulent purchases. Additionally, criminals may use your insurance to receive medical treatment.

While attempting to resolve these issues, consider hiring an attorney in Chandler, AZ. In some cases, hiring a lawyer may be crucial to recovering your losses and catching a company’s attention.

The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office reports that identity theft is prevalent in Chandler. There were over 8,000 reports in one year alone. Local officials encourage you to safeguard personal details and report suspicious activity immediately.

How Does Identity Theft Happen in Chandler, Arizona?

Some common causes of identity theft are not new, and it’s essential to be aware of them. Hackers and cybercriminals use different tactics to steal personal information. But here are some of the long-standing causes of identity theft that consumers should know:

• Companies often store personal financial information for convenience purposes. However, data breaches can occur where hackers can access these servers. When they do, they can extract the personal information of thousands of people at a time.
• Criminals can use small devices called skimmers to steal credit card information. These devices are usually in ATMs, gas pumps, and other places that depend on credit cards for payments. Skimmers can collect card information and personal identification numbers (PINs) without your knowledge.
• Hackers can steal your personal information by infecting your devices with malware and viruses. They can do this through phishing attempts, fake websites, and file-sharing networks. Therefore, you should be cautious when browsing online and receiving emails from unknown accounts.
• Identity theft can also happen through physical theft when thieves steal your mail, wallet, or purse.
• Hackers can use a change of address to obtain your personal information. They can alter your address with services you use and send your mail to a different location.
• Public WiFi networks, while convenient, usually lack encryption. The lack of security makes it easy for hackers to access devices.

What are Some Chandler, Identity Theft Laws

In Arizona, identity theft is a serious crime with severe legal penalties. The penalties for identity theft in Arizona depend on the nature of the crime. For example, if the damages are between $1,000 – $2,000, that is a Class 6 felony. Under Arizona law, it comes with up to two years in prison and fines of around $2,500. If the value is beyond $25,000, the offense is a Class 2 felony. This conviction can lead to 12.5 years in prison and fines of up to $150,000.

A Chandler couple faces multiple felony charges for allegedly taking $1 million in fraudulent COVID-19 loans recently. The couple used fake identities and fraudulent applications to obtain loans. According to court documents, the couple used the funds to purchase luxury items, such as a pool and a new vehicle.

How Can I Detect Identity Theft?

It can be elusive to determine if someone stole your identity. But if you are careful with your online presence, you may notice early signs. Look out for the following indicators:

• You may notice suspicious activities you don’t recognize. You could catch issues with your existing accounts, including deposits, purchases, credit alerts, etc.
• You may find that you no longer receive mail at your primary address.
• You may receive calls or letters from debt collectors about debts you never personally incurred.
• You may see unfamiliar charges on your accounts or new accounts you never opened.
• You may receive bills for services you never received, such as medical care.
• You may receive a letter from the IRS regarding duplicate tax returns in your name.
• You may hear the news that a company you have done business with had a data breach.
• You may experience a sudden and unexplained drop or increase in your credit score.

How Do I Recover From Identity Fraud in Chandler, Arizona?

To start, you should quickly get in touch with your financial institutions. Place a hold on any cards that fraudsters may have compromised. Some companies may also provide the option to stop further unauthorized use directly from their app.

After suspending any compromised cards, the next step is to contact the places where you have discrepancies. Talk to the places or services where they occurred. Finally, close accounts or cancel subscriptions that may have become compromised.

If you are a victim of identity theft, you should contact the Chandler Police Department. You can do this by calling the department’s non-emergency line at (480) 782-4130 or by visiting the police station. The Federal Trade Commission also provides resources and guidance for victims of identity theft on its website.

To further protect your finances, sign up for a credit monitoring service. It will allow you to monitor your credit accounts and spot suspicious activity.

Depending on the severity of the situation, you may need to freeze or close the account. In addition, it’s advisable to seek the help of an experienced Chandler lawyer who can assist you in resolving any issues that may arise.

Identity Theft Protections

Here are some tips to protect yourself from identity theft and safeguard your personal information:

• Be careful when sharing personal information.
• Use strong and unique passwords for your online accounts and change them often.
• Be cautious of phishing scams and do not click on suspicious links or download attachments from unknown sources.
• Regularly review your credit reports and monitor your financial accounts.
• Shred sensitive documents.
• Keep your computer and mobile devices updated, and use a VPN.
• Use two-factor authentication whenever possible.
• Avoid accessing sensitive information over public Wi-Fi networks.

Work With an Experienced Local Lawyer in Chandler, Arizona

Do you have financial or legal issues due to identity theft in Chandler, AZ? If so, we can assist you in connecting with an attorney who can help you resolve these problems. Furthermore, they can prevent them from escalating.

We can even assist you in finding an attorney in a different state across Arizona lines. Contact us today by submitting an online request or calling us at (866) 345-6784.