There are over 15 million identity theft victims per year.  This includes credit card and debit card abuse, checking and savings account fraud, investment account fraud, tax and mortgage fraud.  Identity thieves get your personal information through the following sources:

• Stealing your wallet or purse
• Stealing your mail
• Completing a change of address  to divert your mail
• Going through your trash at home or business
• Obtaining your credit report
• Obtaining your business or personnel records at work
• Using personal information you share on the internet
• Getting personal information from store employees about you appearing on a credit or job application.

Once identity theft occurs, the speed and effectiveness in stopping the misuse is critical. After initial steps have been taken to report the abuse, the daunting task of compiling information falls on the shoulders of the victim.  Hiring a private investigator to obtain evidence and coordinate efforts on behalf of the vicitim offers considerable relief and ensures the details for a successful investigation are collected.  The private investigator can assist with the following:

• Gather documentation such as bank statements, credit card statements, cancelled checks, and delivery receipts
• Coordinate obtained evidence with banks, law enforcement, credit card companies and credit reporting agencies
• If subpoenas are required obtain information such as IP addresses to locate physical address
• Detect possible loopholes in the banks banking policies causing security concerns
• Interview witnesses of all parties involved
• Scan computer networks for possible gaps
• Present documentation to law enforcement officials

The process of repairing damaged credit can take several years, and while most credit card companies and banks offer identity theft protection some do not.  A quick, detailed action plan with the help of a private investigator is the only way to ensure you reclaim your identity and prevent future instances.