When you discover that your identity has been compromised, it can be devastating. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of their legal options or how to proceed if they have been the victim of this crime. However, it’s important to understand that you have a number of rights, including the right to compensation for the damages you’ve endured. As such, the following blog explores what you should know about recovering emotional damages for the impact that identity theft can have on you with the assistance of a Michigan identity theft lawyer to guide you through this process.

What Is Identity Theft and How Does It Happen?

Identity theft occurs when an unauthorized individual accesses your information and uses it for their own financial gain. Most often, this entails opening accounts in someone else’s name, taking out loans, receiving medical benefits, and even committing crimes.

With the rise of technology, identity theft has become increasingly common, and different methods for scamming individuals are constantly occurring. As such, the following are ways in which your identity may be compromised:

  • Phishing scams: Thieves will pretend to be from your bank or other trusted companies in order to access your personal information
  • Data breaches: Unauthorized individuals hack into the databases of retailers, government agencies, and even doctors’ offices to access the personal information of clients and customers.
  • Hacking: Unsecured wifi networks in public or weak security on your own personal network can allow thieves to infiltrate your systems
  • Malware: When you click suspicious links or download sketchy documents, malware may be installed on your device that can mirror your screens and log your keystrokes, allowing thieves to steal your data.

How Do I Seek Emotional Damages?

Unfortunately, you’ll find that recovering emotional damages may not be as simple as you may assume. This is often due to the fact that locating the individual responsible for the theft is very difficult in many instances, as a considerable amount of identity theft occurs online by criminals adept at covering their tracks. However, it’s also important to understand that, in some instances, third parties can face liability. For example, if your information is compromised in a data breach that targeted a retailer, the retailer can be held responsible.

As such, if you know the perpetrator or a company entrusted with your data fails to protect your information, you can pursue a claim against them, not only for the economic damages you’ve suffered as a result, but also for the emotional damages sustained.

In general, the compensation you can recover for emotional damage will depend on your unique circumstances. However, you’ll find that one of the most common issues you can face is anxiety. When your information is compromised, not only can it put your financial information at risk, leaving you nervous about the future of your finances, but knowing that someone has your sensitive and personal details can be incredibly unsettling. In addition, this stress can be compounded by depression and insomnia. In severe instances, you’ll find that you can experience physical issues as a result of this anxiety, like high blood pressure and heart issues.

If your identity has been compromised, it’s imperative to understand your legal options. At Lyngklip & Associates, our firm knows that identity theft can drastically impact your life, which is why we are here to fight for you.  Contact us today to learn more.