Identity Theft and Bankruptcy
In our increasingly connected and digitized age, access to peoples’ personal information is more easily obtained. Identity theft cases occur more frequently than most people realize. It is estimated that 700,000 Americans are victimized by identity thieves each year.
Identity theft is the fastest growing crime in America. It is estimated that each victim will spend approximately 175 hours and one thousand dollars reclaiming their identity. If you have been the victim of identity theft and are now teetering on the verge of bankruptcy, you should speak with the West Palm Beach bankruptcy attorneys of Eric N. Klein & Associates, P.A. about your legal options. Contact us today by calling 561-353-2800 to receive a free initial consultation.
Links Between Bankruptcy and Identity Theft
When you think “identity theft,” seldom does one make the connection between fraud and bankruptcy; however, the link is there. According to the U.S. Trustee Program, identity theft and bankruptcy intersect in the following areas:
- If someone were to file for bankruptcy under a false name and Social Security number
- Incurring debts under a false name/bank account
- Moving property to belong to another person without their knowledge or consent, after which the thief files for bankruptcy under their newly assumed identity to avoid foreclosure
- Using a deceased person’s identity to build credit and/or file for bankruptcy
- Transferring interest in real property to the name of a person whose bankruptcy case is pending
In some cases, a thief may file for bankruptcy under the name of another person and then drop the case. Unfortunately, the person whose Social Security number was used will forever have an attempted bankruptcy case on his or her record.
Contact Us
If you have been the victim of identity theft, or are otherwise struggling to work your way out of debt, the West Palm Beach bankruptcy attorneys of Eric N. Klein & Associates, P.A. can help. Contact us today at 561-353-2800 to discuss your case with a legal professional.
