The Federal Trade Commission has repeatedly listed identity theft as one of the most prevalent and rapidly growing crimes in the nation. Oregonians have been particularly hard hit by identity theft, registering nearly 3,000 reports in 2005. The consumer protection lawyers of Baxter & Baxter, LLP, have compiled this website to provide consumers with information about identity theft – how to determine if you are a victim of identity theft, how to prevent identity theft, and how to deal with identity theft if you are a victim. We have also provided consumers information on ordering their free annual credit report, and how to dispute false credit reports.
Identity theft can occur in many ways. The most common include the use of stolen credit cards or checks, and the unauthorized use of personal identifying information to obtain credit. The first type of identity theft is often apparent to the victim, but it may not be. Credit cards, checks, and other credit instruments, such as credit card balance transfer checks, can be stolen from cars, homes, or mailboxes.
The second type of identity theft is more sophisticated, and can be more difficult to identify. By using personal identifying information, such as a social security number or birthdate, a credit thief can obtain credit accounts without the victim even being aware of the fraud. Identity thieves can open credit card accounts, or purchase goods and services.
Sometimes a consumer will learn of this type of identity theft when they are contacted by creditors. This includes phone calls and letters from bill collectors. However, because identity thieves may not use the victim's correct address or phone number, a consumer may not immediately be contacted.
Sometimes a debt collector or creditor will conduct a skip trace, which involves locating a consumer by checking their credit report for other contact information. In this case, it is possible that a fraudulent account may be linked up to the victim, and the debt collector or creditor will begin contacting the victim to demand payment.
In other cases, a consumer may not discover fraudulent accounts until they seek legitimate credit, and obtain a copy of their credit report. This often comes as a shock at the most inopportune moment. It is a good idea for consumers to take advantage of their right to order a free annual credit report and review it periodically for accuracy.
