Identity theft lawyers in California
Seeking justice for identity theft? Zemel Law boasts a skilled team of identity theft lawyers in California. Safeguard your rights and financial well-being with our expert assistance. Don't let identity theft go unchallenged – act now!
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Your Legal Defenders In Identity Theft in California
Identity theft can be slightly or severely violating your consumer rights and Zemel Law makes sure to restore your privacy with robust legal measures. Every time you make a financial transaction, submit personal information to anyone, visit a website, view an email, or even operate your laptop, there is a chance that someone is attempting to steal your personal information for wrongful benefit.
According to BJS (Bureau of Justice Statistics), In 2021, about 23.9 million persons (9% of US residents aged 16 and older) had been victims of identity theft. When someone wrongfully uses your information or assumes your identity, they can cause considerable harm to you and your financial condition. However, many victims are unaware that their identity has been stolen until they begin to notice the consequences. The consequences of identity theft can vary from embarrassment to major legal and financial harms. Thieves can wreck your credit score and bank accounts financially. They can leave victims feeling violated and uneasy emotionally.
Assess your risk, protect your identity, and contact our best identity theft lawyer in California if there is anything you find unusual. Zemel Law Firm understands how to protect you from liability and potential concerns that may arise as a result of this type of situation.
Take action against the companies that may be violating your rights.
Signs Indicating Your Identity Has Been Compromised
Loan or Credit Card Application Denied
If you request a loan or a line of credit and it is denied, dig into it more. A refusal could mean your credit score is lower than you believed, possibly due to fraudulent activity. Someone, for example, may use your information to obtain new credit cards and then not pay them off, leaving you accountable.
Unauthorized Account Opened in Your Name
Once identity thieves have enough information, like your name and address, they are potentially able to register new accounts and credit cards. When checking your credit report, watch out for new accounts that you did not open. Another warning indicator is receiving bank statements or bills addressed to you for accounts you aren't familiar with.
Personal Information Exposed in a Data Breach
Cybercriminals may exploit your exposed personal information from a data breach for various fraudulent activities. Identity thieves often employ a common strategy of searching for usernames, passwords, and account numbers disclosed on the dark web.
Debt Collectors Pursuing Accounts You Never Created
Be cautious if debt collectors start calling you, especially if they're referring to unfamiliar accounts. Don't give personal information to collection companies who contact you, as this could be a phishing scam. However, following up on these matters is a good idea by checking your credit record for new accounts.
Unfamiliar Medical Charges on Your Bill
Medical fraud is when a fraudster pretends to be another individual in order to obtain medical services or supplies. For example, a person may use your identity to obtain prescription drugs from a pharmacy. If you receive unexpected medical costs, follow up. Incorrect medical records may affect your insurance premiums or your ability to obtain necessary care in the future.
Misaddressed Mail at Your Residence
This could be a sign of synthetic identity theft. This happens when a fraudster establishes a fake identity using real data from multiple persons. For example, they may take your address, Social Security number, and another person's photo to construct a creditworthy persona. They can then obtain credit cards in that fake person's name.
Fraudulent Filing of a Tax Return in Your Name
Take note if you receive confirmation of an annual tax filing before you have filed. Criminals may attempt to file a tax return for someone else to access their tax refund. Alternatively, you may find that you are unable to e-file your taxes because someone else has already filed using your name.
Legal Aspects Covered Under Identity Theft Clauses in California
Section 609(e) of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) protects consumers from identity theft by offering them particular rights and putting responsibilities on corporations. Victims of identity theft have the right to request copies of transaction records linked to the theft, like credit applications, from businesses. Furthermore, victims can provide law enforcement access to these documents, and firms covered by the FCRA have to provide these records free of charge within 30 days after obtaining a written request. The Federal Trade Commission administers and enforces these regulations, notably the Section 609(e) requirement.
Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act of 1998
It is a prominent legislation enacted in the United States to combat identity theft. It primarily addresses the unlawful use and transfer of someone else's means of identification with the intent to commit criminal activities. The act establishes specific offenses related to identity theft and imposes penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and forfeiture of personal property used or intended for the offense. Additionally, it mandates the review and amendment of federal sentencing guidelines to ensure appropriate penalties for such offenses.
The Identity Theft Penalty Enhancement Act of 2004 (ITPEA)
This is a federal law that amended the Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act of 1998. The primary purpose of ITPEA was to enhance penalties for identity theft-related crimes, particularly addressing issues such as aggravated identity theft and crimes affecting military personnel. It established mandatory minimum sentences for aggravated identity theft, requiring additional imprisonment alongside penalties for the underlying offenses, with a focus on crimes related to terrorism, espionage, and other serious criminal activities.
How Our Specialized Identity Theft Lawyers Can Help You in California
Initial Consultation and Evaluation
At Zemel Law, our California-based identity theft attorneys initiate the proceedings by conducting a comprehensive initial consultation with the victim. Throughout this phase, they collect information concerning identity theft, including specifics like occurrences, timelines, and any available details about the perpetrator. Once the case particulars are clear, our attorneys proceed to assess the legal dimensions. This involves a thorough examination of relevant federal and state laws and regulations to determine the most suitable course of action.
Plan of Recovery
Following a thorough examination of the identity theft issue, our attorney will create a specific recovery plan for the victim. The attorneys will interact with credit bureaus or other appropriate authorities to ensure that the occurrence is accurately reported. They assist the victim through the process of placing fraud warnings on credit reports, which is an important step in preventing additional illegal activity.
Credit Report Cleaning
Individualized Approach
Constant Assistance and Resolution
Legal Representation
Common Methods Used by Identity Thieves in California
Phishing
Vishing (Voice Phishing)
Shoulder Surfing
Skimming
Dumpster Diving
Wireless Hacking
Get Legal Identity Theft Prevention Assistance
Do not panic if you receive a fraud alert from your bank, mail service, or credit bureau. Our ID theft attorneys at Zemel Law help our clients fight all types of identity theft with a free consultation and no-pressure first meeting. Don't wait if you suspect someone is exploiting your identity without your permission. We support you with our highly experienced team of Identity Theft Lawyers in New Jersey, California, Los Angeles, New York, Washington County, and other significant areas of the United States. Our educated specialists are available to speak with you; please call us at 862-271-2664 or fill out your inquiries on our client portal.
FAQs
How long does it typically take to resolve an identity theft case in California?
What steps should I take immediately after discovering that my identity has been stolen?
- File a police report with your local authorities.
- Reach the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at 1-877-438-4338 or identitytheft.gov.
- Notify all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to post a fraud warning on your credit reports.
- You can also contact us! Our legal staff is focused on helping victims of identity theft, guiding them through the recovery process, and limiting the damage. We interact with necessary authorities to help with the harm caused by identity theft, providing a complete and effective settlement.
Can an identity theft lawyer help me with the process of freezing my credit in California?
What damages can I pursue in an identity theft case in California?
Client testimonials
If you're being hounded by debt collectors when you don't even owe a debt (and maybe even if you do), Daniel Zemel is the man to call.
Yoni Schreier
I was very happy with my experience with Mr Zemel. I am very grateful for his hard work on my behalf. I highly recommend him.
Anne Nafeh
Great experience overall having Daniel Zemel as my attorney. Daniel understands his client, very insightful and is an expert in his field. Truly a professional and marvelous individual.
Jojo Tameron
They took care of what I needed very efficiently! Highly recommend!
Jim Russo
Nothing but a pleasant experience. Very knowledgeable about the consumer protection laws. Prompt responses, and easy to work with. One of the very few lawyers that you don't have to pay money out of pocket to talk to or to hire. Highly recommend.
Ramsey Coulter
My wife and I have repeatedly been contacted by debt collectors for debts we did not owe. Mr. Zemel resolved the issues quickly and painlessly and not only did we not pay the debt collectors, they ended up paying us!
Jonathan Schreier
I rarely write reviews, I wouldn't be surprised if this is my first one ever.... But thats because this one was EARNED!
Zemel Law is the real deal. Great service, great knowledge of the law and overall good people.
I would highly recommend!
Henry Johnson
Zelel Law contacted me prior to me even realizing I was illegally being sued (and paying) on a prior debt. Less than a year later they had to contact me again to have me sign a release on an excellent settlement offer from the company that sued me. I agreed and am happy to say, this firm is by far one of a kind!
Alfonzo Roberts Jr.
I am so grateful to Daniel and his team! I was harassed (inappropriately) by a debt collector. He was very helpful, knowledgeable and responsive in handling my case. During the deposition I was nervous; though he was fantastic about being calming and engaging as well as relatable. He was able to get me an award that was above and beyond what I thought I was entitled to. Seriously, the BEST experience ever!!!
Leah Gee
I've been represented by Zemel Law several times and have had excellent experiences every time. They are extremely knowledgeable, attentive, responsive, and flexible. The lead attorney, Daniel, has a deep understanding of consumer law and was a pleasure to deal with. I strongly recommend Zemel Law for your legal needs.
A P
I've been represented by Zemel Law several times and have had excellent experiences every time. They are extremely knowledgeable, attentive, responsive, and flexible. The lead attorney, Daniel, has a deep understanding of consumer law and was a pleasure to deal with. I strongly recommend Zemel Law for your legal needs.
Chris Kelman
I've been represented by Zemel Law several times and have had excellent experiences every time. They are extremely knowledgeable, attentive, responsive, and flexible. The lead attorney, Daniel, has a deep understanding of consumer law and was a pleasure to deal with. I strongly recommend Zemel Law for your legal needs.
Sou Sintha
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