If you’ve been receiving strange phone calls about debts you don’t recognize or alerts from your bank account that indicate potential fraud, it’s imperative to understand that these are signs that your identity has been compromised. Unfortunately, this can be a very difficult matter to navigate, and you may be left with a considerable amount of damages as a result. However, it’s imperative to understand that you may be able to seek compensation for the damages you’ve suffered. The following blog explores who can be held responsible for the dissemination of your sensitive information, what damages you are eligible to recover, and why working with a Michigan identity theft lawyer is in your best interest.
Who Can Face Liability for Identity Theft?
When your identity is stolen, it’s imperative to understand that finding the party directly responsible for the theft of your personal information can be incredibly difficult. Those who commit identity theft are often technologically savvy and able to cover their digital tracks, making it hard to trace these individuals. As such, many identity thieves are left unprosecuted.
However, if another party is responsible for failing to protect your personal information, thus allowing it to be accessed by thieves, they can face liability. This is because these entities are required to protect these sensitive details, and if they fail to do so, they can be responsible for the damages you’ve incurred as a result.
Different entities that can be held liable for failure to keep your personal information secured include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Medical offices
- Creditors and debt collectors
- Financial institutions
- Employers
- Online retailers
- Social media companies
- Government entities
What Damages Can Victims Seek?
If you have had your identity compromised, you can endure a considerable amount of damage as a result. One of the most pressing matters revolves around your credit score. When your identity is used by another person, they may make purchases in your name that they fail to pay off. As such, you can be stuck with the outstanding debt in your name, as well as a decimated credit score. In addition, your lowered credit score can result in higher interest rates, denial of loans, and reduced credit limits. You are eligible to seek compensation for these financial damages as a victim of identity theft.
It’s no secret that being a victim of identity theft can also take a toll on your mental state. You may find that this can cause a considerable amount of stress and anxiety. You may worry about your finances, whether or not a creditor will knock on your door, or if you will be sued for a debt you don’t know about because of the actions of another person. As such, you are eligible to seek compensation for these matters, known as non-economic damages. However, you should note that it can be difficult to recover these funds as they are not tangible and thus hard to calculate due to their subjective nature.
When your identity is compromised, enlisting the assistance of an experienced identity theft attorney is critical. At Lyngklip & Associates, we understand how difficult these matters can be, which is why we are committed to assisting you in the fight for justice. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you.
