Identity Theft Crimes Increasing

Javelin Strategy & Research has been conducting research for ten years into the subject of identity theft and has published its 2013 Identity Fraud Report concerning trends in this white collar crime for 2012. This report shows an increase of one million more individuals victimized by this crime over the previous year. The amount of money stolen also increased to $21 billion, which the research company states is the highest dollar amount in three years. The statistics translate to an incident of identity theft occurring in the U.S. every three seconds. The report further states that one in four individuals receiving notifications from businesses and institutions that their identity had been breached went on to become a victim of identity theft.

The most damaging identity breach is one involving a Social Security number. According to the report, those whose Social Security number has been stolen were five times more at risk for identity fraud than others. Other types of identity theft involve the fraudulent use of credit cards, loans, bank accounts, and mobile phone accounts. The report stated that stolen information is being used by thieves for a shorter period of time than previously; the average time used is 48 days. This may be because consumers and consumer organizations and institutions are working together more, with banking alerts and other types of notifications, to keep consumers on top of fraudulent activity.

Theft Crime Attorney in Dublin, California

If you are facing allegations of a theft crime, whether it involves identity theft, embezzlement, shoplifting, burglary, or any other type, you are at risk for serious penalties. You should immediately consult with an attorney who is experienced in criminal defense in the local courts in your area. At the Law Office of Ivan O.B. Morse, you will benefit from the 30-year track record of Attorney Morse, a proven legal professional serving the Northern California areas of Dublin, Castro Valley, Livermore, Pleasanton, San Ramon, and Tracy.

Mr. Morse is a former Oakland police officer who has investigated nearly every type of crime and who can provide knowledgeable and skilled legal representation. He has a thorough understanding of how law enforcement works as well as how the criminal justice system operates. Contact his office to discuss your case with him before talking about it to anyone else. His website at www.ivanmorselaw.com also provides helpful and informative videos about criminal defense.