Identity Theft
Identity theft can destroy your credit, drain your bank accounts, and create lasting stress—often before you even know it’s happened. Thieves may open fraudulent accounts, take loans in your name, or file false tax returns. We help victims remove fraudulent accounts, restore credit, and hold parties accountable under the FCRA, FDCPA, and Florida law.
Your Rights
Under the FCRA, FDCPA, and Florida consumer laws, you have the right to:
Place a fraud alert or credit freeze.
Get free copies of your credit reports.
Dispute fraudulent accounts and unauthorized transactions.
Block confirmed identity theft data from your file.
Seek compensation if agencies or collectors fail to act.
Possible Damages
If errors aren’t corrected, you may be entitled to:
Recovery of stolen funds.
Compensation for emotional distress and time lost.
Reimbursement for expenses like certified mail and legal costs.
Punitive damages for willful violations.
Attorney’s fees and court costs.
What Clients Ask us Most
Do I need a lawyer to handle identity theft issues?
You are not required to hire a lawyer, but identity theft often triggers multiple legal violations across credit reporting agencies, banks, and debt collectors. When fraudulent accounts remain on your credit report, continue to be collected on, or cause denials of credit, housing, or employment, legal representation can be critical.
An attorney helps ensure your rights under federal and state consumer protection laws are enforced — not ignored.
Can identity theft impact my ability to get a job, housing, or credit?
Yes. Identity theft frequently leads to inaccurate credit reports, background check errors, and false derogatory information. These inaccuracies can result in:
- Loan or credit denials
- Rental application rejections
- Employment denials or rescinded job offers
When identity theft causes these harms, consumers may have claims under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and related laws.
Do I have to pay for fraudulent charges?
No. You are generally not responsible for debts or charges resulting from identity theft. Federal consumer protection laws provide safeguards for victims of fraud, including limits on liability and the right to dispute unauthorized charges.
If a creditor or bank continues to hold you responsible after receiving notice of fraud, that may constitute a legal violation.
I found accounts on my credit report that I didn’t open. What should I do?
You should act quickly. This typically includes:
- Disputing the fraudulent accounts with the credit reporting agencies
- Notifying the affected creditors
- Placing fraud alerts or freezes when appropriate
If the accounts are not removed, continue to be reported, or cause financial or personal harm, legal action may be necessary to enforce your rights and prevent further damage.
What if a debt collector is trying to collect on fraudulent accounts?
Debt collectors are prohibited from attempting to collect debts they cannot legally verify. If a collector continues pursuing payment on accounts that resulted from identity theft — especially after being notified — they may be violating federal and state debt collection laws.
You have the right to dispute the debt, demand validation, and seek legal remedies if the conduct continues.
Federal Consumer Protection Areas And Consumer Injury Advocacy
