STOLEN IDENTITY, STOLEN CREDIT — Fighting Back Against Credit Damage
Identity theft isn’t just a personal violation—it’s a financial ambush
When a criminal uses your personal information to open fraudulent accounts, rack up unauthorized charges, or file fake tax returns, your credit score can take a devastating hit. This can block you from securing loans, renting an apartment, or even landing certain jobs.
R23 Law’s California Consumer Protection Attorneys understand the legal and financial fallout of identity theft, and we know how to protect your rights while rebuilding your credit standing.
How Identity Theft Damages Your Credit Score
Identity thieves can strike in multiple ways:
Fraudulent Accounts – Credit cards, loans, or leases opened in your name appear as if you applied for them.
Unauthorized Transactions – Purchases, withdrawals, or checks that lead to missed payments or overdrafts.
Credit Report Errors – Inaccurate data that inflates your debt load or shows delinquency you didn’t cause.
These actions hurt your credit by increasing debt, lowering your credit score, and showing a negative payment history—key factors lenders use to judge your trustworthiness.
Protecting Yourself from Ongoing Damage
To reduce your risk and act quickly if you’re targeted:
Monitor your credit report and bank accounts for suspicious activity.
Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
Place a fraud alert or credit freeze to stop new accounts from being opened in your name.
Report the theft to the FTC and local law enforcement.
Dispute fraudulent entries with the credit bureaus under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).
Repairing Credit After Identity Theft
Rebuilding takes time, but the right strategy can restore your score:
Pay All Bills on Time – Payment history is 35% of your FICO® score.
Keep Credit Utilization Low – Aim for under 30% of your available credit.
Dispute Inaccurate Accounts – Provide documentation to the credit bureaus to remove fraudulent items.
Limit New Credit Applications – Avoid hard inquiries unless necessary.
Consider Secured Credit Products – A secured credit card or credit-builder loan can establish positive payment history.
Your Legal Rights and Remedies
If identity theft results in wrongful credit reporting, you have legal tools to demand corrections and pursue damages:
FCRA Claims – Force credit bureaus to investigate and remove inaccurate data.
State Consumer Protection Laws – Provide additional remedies, including potential compensation for financial losses and attorney’s fees.
Our team will gather evidence, handle disputes, and, if needed, file lawsuits to correct your report and recover compensation for the harm done.
Why Choose R23 Law’s California Consumer Protection Attorneys
We combine aggressive legal advocacy with deep experience in consumer protection law. We:
Challenge credit bureaus and creditors over inaccurate or fraudulent reporting
Work to stop ongoing identity theft–related financial harm
Help rebuild your credit profile for future borrowing opportunities
Operate on a contingency fee basis—you don’t pay unless we win
Your identity is personal. So is your credit. Don’t let thieves dictate your financial future. Contact R23 Law’s California Consumer Protection Attorneys today for a free consultation and take back control of your financial life.
