Consumer Fraud Watch: Miami Metro Area Leader in Identity Fraud
Recently, Consumer Affairs released a comprehensive report on identity theft. Alarmingly, the organization found that identity theft is up nearly 400 percent over the last two decades. The Miami metropolitan area has the dubious distinction of being the leader in identity theft nationwide. Within this article, our Miami FDUTPA lawyer discusses the report and explains your rights if you were the victim of identity theft (fraud) in Florida.
Report: Identity Theft is a Big Problem in Miami
Consumer Affairs conducted a comprehensive analysis of data from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The organization determined that Florida had the second-highest level of identity theft per capita of any state in 2023. Only Georgia had a higher rate of identity theft reports in 2023. In Florida, there were 438 identity theft reports per 100,000 residents. Of course, not all identity theft is reported—meaning the true rate is undoubtedly significantly higher. Notably, the Miami metro area had the highest identity theft rate of any specific metropolitan area in the country.
What to Do If You Were the Victim of Identity Theft
Do you believe that you or your loved one was the victim of identity theft in Florida? It is normal to feel frustrated, stressed out, and unsure of what needs to be done next. A proactive approach is a must. Here are five things that you should do as soon as possible:
- Document It: Keep detailed records of all communications, transactions, and actions taken in response to the identity theft.
- Notify Credit Bureaus: Contact at least one of the three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion—to place a fraud alert on your credit report. That credit bureau must inform the other main credit reporting agencies.
- Review Credit Reports: You have the right to obtain a free copy of all credit reports if you were the victim of identity theft. Be sure to review them all for any unauthorized accounts or transactions.
- Contact Financial Institutions: Alert your banks, credit card companies, and any other financial institutions about the identity theft. You should be sure to freeze or even close any compromised accounts.
- Contact the Authorities: Be sure to report the identity theft to your local police department or the Florida Attorney General’s office. Obtain a copy of the police report or the incident report. A lawyer can help you determine what needs to come next.
You May Have a Civil Claim Against a Company that Failed to Protect Personal Information
How did identity theft happen? It could have been the consequence of a third party business mishandling your sensitive personal information. In some cases, consumers in Florida may have a claim against a third party for damage caused by negligent failure to protect information.
Call Our FDUTPA Lawyer for Immediate Help
At Pike & Lustig, LLP, our Florida FDUTPA attorney provides experienced legal advocacy to clients. Have specific questions about a fraud case as a consumer? We can help. Contact our firm today to set up your confidential initial consultation. We handle FDUTPA cases throughout South Florida, including in Miami, West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Jupiter, Coral Gables, and Boca Raton.
Source:
consumeraffairs.com/finance/identity-theft-statistics.html
